The Boston Bruins are in the market for a top-six forward to add speed and skill to their lineup this offseason. One potential target generating buzz is Carolina Hurricanes star Martin Necas.
Necas has been at the center of trade rumors recently. With his restricted free agency approaching, the Hurricanes need to decide if he fits into their long-term plans. If Carolina decides to move him, several teams, including the Boston Bruins, are showing interest.
“The Winnipeg Jets, Chicago Blackhawks, Montreal Canadiens, Calgary Flames, and Boston Bruins are among the teams that have shown general interest,” reported Pierre LeBrun from The Athletic. “Whether they are among the five to seven Carolina sees as matches, I’m not sure.” LeBrun also noted that Necas “wants a change of scenery.”
At just 25 years old, Necas would be an excellent addition to the Bruins’ core, which includes David Pastrnak (28), Charlie McAvoy (26), and Jeremy Swayman (25). Although Necas can play center, he has primarily been utilized as a winger in Carolina. The Bruins are in dire need of a top-six center, given the playoff struggles of Charlie Coyle and Pavel Zacha in generating offense at 5-on-5.
Necas recorded 53 points (24 goals, 29 assists) in 77 games last season, with career highs of 28 goals and 43 assists in the 2022-23 season. He also tallied nine points (four goals, five assists) in 11 playoff games this past season, demonstrating his postseason potential. Notably, Necas is one of the league’s fastest players.
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The Bruins currently have approximately $21.2 million in salary cap space, according to CapFriendly. They need to re-sign goaltender Jeremy Swayman (RFA) and consider re-signing Jake DeBrusk (UFA), among other internal free agents. Acquiring Necas would require negotiating a new contract, which could be costly. However, his age and talent make him a worthwhile investment. Additionally, Necas has chemistry with Bruins forwards David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha, as they helped Czechia win gold at the 2024 IIHF World Championships.
If the Bruins don’t secure a deal for Necas, there are several attractive free agents potentially available on July 1. Top forwards who could hit the market include Steven Stamkos, Elias Lindholm, Sam Reinhart, Jake Guentzel, Jonathan Marchessault, Tyler Toffoli, Chandler Stephenson, and Anthony Mantha.
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