This is it, the NHL’s trade deadline. This is one of the most exciting times of the NHL season for many. While for others, it’s the most disapointing. But which way will it go for Boston?
The Ones That Got Away
Even before the day of the trade deadline, the Bruins already have lost out on a lot of potential trades. I have mentioned plenty of times that Boston could do with a new second-line center. But unfortunately, that does not seem to be the case. Centers such as Tomáš Hertl and Joe Pavelski were two potential trade targets but were both signed to new deals to keep them where they are at.
I have also mentioned several times before that I really liked the idea of J.T. Miller on the Bruins. Unfortunately with Miller, the Cancucks have been battling on the playoff bubble, so he is probably staying put. Maybe if given the right offer they would be willing to part with Miller, but I cannot see how any trade for Miller right now would benefit either Vancouver or Boston.
And of course this week it was pretty much publically announced that the biggest rental on the market, Claude Giroux, axed a potential trade offer to Boston. So yeah, Boston is probably getting the centerman. At least barring any trade deadline magic happening. Which of course there always is that chance.
Did the Bruins Already Land Their Guy?
Even with all those centermen that Boston lost out on, it does not look like the Bruins are going to be that upset. This past Saturday, the Bruins decided to cut any unnecessary drama and make a trade. And this particular trade has sent the Duck’s Hampus Lindholm to Boston. Which could be exactly what the Bruins wanted to get out of this trade deadline.
I have already talked about the possibility of a trade for Jakob Chychrun. He was the sexier choice if you will. A young left-shot d-man with a lot of potential seems like the better option, but most people really do not factor in the price. Lindholm on the other hand is still a very solid defenseman and the Bruins did not have to spend an arm and a leg for him. Giving up just a handful of mid-round picks as well as John Moore and Urho Vaakanainen.
The Bruins definitely seem to think they have their man, as pretty much immediately after making the trade, they signed Lindholm to an 8-year deal. Now, I am not exactly a fan of deals that long for players as old as Lindholm, but at least now I know the Bruins are a lot more solid defensively.
DeBrusk Will Stay Put
Obviously, no trades are free. Come Monday afternoon, someone will no longer be wearing the black and gold. But with the position Boston is currently in, do not expect any big names to be leaving. And that includes Jake DeBrusk. Despite his trade request.
DeBrusk has been stellar in March. He really has returned to the form he had in his first few seasons. Even though he had made a trade request, that does not mean the Bruins are obliged to honor it. Especially when he has been doing so well this season.
The Bruins most likely are not getting what they hoped for in terms of offers for DeBrusk. And if the Bruins cannot get a good replacement for DeBrusk, why even get rid of him? DeBrusk will probably get his payday after this season. Who knows too, maybe DeBrusk decides he wants to stay in Boston after all.
Hi, I’m RJ Oakley and I’m the Bruins beat writer here at Belly Up Sports. Check back here and follow me on Twitter for news and discussion on the B’s. Be sure to follow Belly Up Hockey as well for all your NHL needs!
