Recently, the Boston Bruins have gone the college route as they continue to build up their prospect pool. First, Providence defenseman Michael Callahan was acquired from Arizona for a 7th round pick and signed to a two-year entry-level contract by Boston. Then, Boston College forward Marc McLaughlin signed the same entry-level deal with Boston. Now, the Bruins’ focus might be turning to McLaughlin’s BC teammate Jack McBain.
Reports are that McBain, who was a third-round pick of Minnesota in the 2018 NHL Draft, will not sign with the Wild. McBain would have to sign his contract with the Wild by the summer but appears to be ready to test the free-agent market. The 6’4” center should have multiple teams interested after totaling 33 points in 24 games with the Eagles this season. The Toronto, Ontario native burst onto the scene after a disappointing start to his collegiate career.
Now it is up to Wild general manager Bill Guerin to get a return for McBain before the summer. The Bruins have already used a pick to acquire Callahan and could be looking to use another pick to add McBain. The Wild would like to sign the Eagles star and add him to a roster that already includes former BC star Matt Boldy.
The Bruins need a center after the departure of David Krejci and with Patrice Bergeron being an unrestricted free agent. Former 2nd round pick Jack Studnicka has not developed as the team had hoped, which leaves a possible void at the position. McBain would be the big center that could potentially play in the NHL lineup sooner than later.
As the trade deadline approaches, the Bruins are looking to add to their current roster to make a potential run at a Stanley Cup. But another move for the future could also be on the table. Adding Jack McBain could be an under-the-radar move for Bruins general manager Don Sweeney that could help the Bruins at the center position for years to come.
