According to an NHL executive source, the Boston Bruins are actively searching the NHL trade market for a two-way defenseman with a focus on adding a physical presence to their blue line. The desire for a defenseman has reportedly been a prolonged objective for Bruins general manager Don Sweeney, and recent struggles on the ice have intensified the urgency to address this need.
The Bruins’ recent performance, going 1-3-1 in their last five games, has highlighted defensive vulnerabilities. In four of these games, they conceded five or more goals, deviating from the stingy team defense that marked their early-season success. The team’s identity crisis became apparent after a 3-2 overtime loss to the Montreal Canadiens on November 11, with head coach Jim Montgomery cautioning that they were straying from their established style of play.
In the wake of their third-straight loss against the Columbus Blue Jackets, Montgomery expressed dissatisfaction with multiple aspects of the team’s performance, citing a lack of physicality and shortcomings in stick battles. This string of losses has prompted questions about whether the Bruins will seek a solution internally or turn to the NHL trade market to address their defensive woes.
Notably, there have been previous speculations about a potential trade fit with the Calgary Flames for defenseman Nikita Zadorov. The 28-year-old, known for his rugged play and puck-moving skills, had earlier requested a trade from the Flames. A potential trade involving Zadorov and Bruins defenseman Matt Grzelcyk, who has reportedly been on the trade radar, has been suggested. This hypothetical one-for-one trade would be cap-compliant, with both players in the final season of their respective contracts.
While discussions between the Bruins and Flames have been confirmed, the specific details of the trade, including Zadorov’s involvement, remain unconfirmed. The ongoing scrutiny of the Bruins’ defensive struggles and their pursuit of a physical defenseman add intrigue to potential trade developments as the season progresses.
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