The Boston Bruins are poised for a big offseason spending spree following their second-round exit in the 2024 NHL Stanley Cup playoffs at the hands of the Florida Panthers. With over $20 million in cap space, the Bruins aim to secure a true top-six center, another top-six winger, and more depth scoring. This task has been challenging for the organization, especially with ten expiring contracts, most notably that of Jeremy Swayman. Swayman, one of the NHL’s top young goaltenders, has been a crucial player for the Bruins in recent seasons.
Boston Bruins’ Goaltending Situation
The Bruins are keen to lock up Swayman, who is likely seeking a significant payday. This has fueled trade rumors surrounding Linus Ullmark, given Swayman’s stellar performance and contract situation. Ullmark, currently holding a $5 million cap hit with one season remaining on his contract, may be on the move. Here are some potential trade destinations for Ullmark as the 2024 NHL Entry Draft approaches.
Linus Ullmark Trade Destinations
Detroit Red Wings
DET receives: Linus Ullmark
BOS receives: 2024 1st Round Pick (#15), Robby Fabbri
The Detroit Red Wings are interested in acquiring a top-tier goaltender this offseason. With recent trades like Darcy Kuemper to the Los Angeles Kings and Jacob Markstrom to New Jersey, Detroit is expected to pursue Ullmark aggressively. This trade would grant the Bruins the 15th pick in this year’s draft, providing a late lottery pick to land a solid prospect. Additionally, the Bruins would receive center/left wing Robby Fabbri. Though Fabbri has struggled with injuries, he is a valuable offensive contributor when healthy, potentially bolstering Boston’s top-six forward core.
Ottawa Senators
OTT receives: Linus Ullmark
BOS receives: 2024 1st Round Pick (#25), Jakob Chychrun
The Ottawa Senators are one goaltender away from being true contenders next season. Ullmark, a recent Vezina Trophy winner, has high trade value, potentially leading to an overpay from interested teams. The Senators, with two first-round picks in this year’s draft and more in the next two years, could afford to trade one. This deal would give the Bruins their first pick in the first three rounds of the draft. Additionally, they would acquire Jakob Chychrun, a young top-four defenseman. Chychrun, a 6’2” two-way defenseman with one year left on his contract, could provide solid offensive options and fit into Boston’s defensive scheme, especially with potential free agency losses like Matt Grzelcyk and Derek Forbort.
Edmonton Oilers
EDM receives: Linus Ullmark
BOS receives: 2025 1st Round Pick (TBD), Ryan Nugent-Hopkins
The Edmonton Oilers have managed with average goaltending in recent seasons but are interested in Ullmark. Ullmark has been a trade target since early 2023, and the Oilers may pursue him again this offseason. In return, the Bruins would receive center Ryan Nugent-Hopkins, addressing Boston’s need for a top-line center. Nugent-Hopkins would bring aggressive offensive zone play and the ability to create scoring chances. Additionally, Boston would receive a first-round pick in the 2025 draft, aiding their future prospect pool.
Linus Ullmark could be a significant addition to any of these teams. His potential trade could provide the Bruins with valuable assets to address their roster needs and build for the future.
Leave a Reply