**Veteran Canucks Defenseman Could Add Depth to Boston Bruins**
Boston Bruins General Manager has a busy off-season ahead. The team needs a top-six center, a winger to potentially replace the departing Jake DeBrusk, and additional defensive depth on the left side. While Hampus Lindholm and Mason Lohrei provide solid options as left-shot defensemen, the Bruins lack depth beyond Parker Wotherspoon, who plays on his off-side. The Bruins don’t require a heavy-minute player but need a reliable seventh defenseman.
One potential candidate is Vancouver Canucks defenseman Ian Cole. The 35-year-old is an unrestricted free agent and could provide leadership and depth for the Bruins’ defense. Cole, the 18th overall pick in the 2007 NHL Draft, has played 826 regular-season games over his 14-year career. This season, he played on a one-year, $3 million contract with the Canucks, contributing two goals and nine assists in 78 regular-season games. In the postseason, Cole had two assists in 13 games, averaging 16:49 of ice time. Known for his shot-blocking, Cole totaled 166 blocks this season and has two Stanley Cup wins with Pittsburgh in 2016 and 2017.
The Ann Arbor, Michigan native could join his ninth NHL franchise this off-season. The Bruins need left-shot defensemen as Matt Grzelcyk and Derek Forbort are likely to leave. Cole would add veteran presence and take over some of Forbort’s penalty-killing duties.
Primarily a defensive player, Cole started 63 percent of his shifts in the defensive zone this season. Despite battling injuries, he has played at least 70 games in each of the last three seasons.
While the Bruins have more urgent offensive needs, bolstering their blue line would be beneficial. Cole’s experience, shot-blocking ability, and winning background could make him a valuable addition to Boston.
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