Report: Bruins Are 1 of 6 Teams Linked to Talented Defenseman

Without a doubt, the Bruins are all in this season, especially after the start they had in 2022. General manager Don Sweeney is focused on one thing, and that’s delivering a Stanley Cup back to Boston with veterans Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci leading the charge.

Due to their hot start to the season and willingness to go all in, don’t be surprised to see the Boston Bruins linked to almost any available player as the March 3rd trade deadline approaches. The Bruins have already been tied to the Chicago Blackhawks Patrick Kane and Jonathan Toews, as well as Bo Horvat of the Vancouver Canucks.

This latest player stems from last season’s trade deadline thought when the Bruins were interested in Arizona Coyotes defenseman Jakob Chychrun. The Bruins were considered one of the top three teams in the mix but instead ended up acquiring Hampus Lindholm from the Anaheim Ducks for a fraction of the cost.

According to Craig Morgan of PHNX Sports, six teams are currently linked to the star defenseman. Including Sweeney and the Bruins.

The only issue that has kept teams from making a deal is the asking price, which many views as too high. Coyotes GM Bill Armstrong has made it perfectly clear what he wants for a return, which is two firsts and a second or a good prospect. Giving up that much draft capital is a tough pill to swallow, even for a player of Chychrun’s talents. It’s also hard to believe that any of the teams listed, besides Ottawa, have such assets to get the deal done.

The Bruins are certainly low on first-round picks, especially after shipping one off to the west coast to acquire Lindholm last season. The defense has been a priority for the Bruins as they attempt to solidify their top four. McAvoy and Lindholm are top players, while Clifton and Forbort are strong on the third pairing. The question has always been the second pairing, as Brandon Carlo and Matt Grzelcyk leave much to be desired. While both players have their moments, an upgrade would make this team that much better for, not just this season but in the future, with McAvoy, Lindholm, and Chychrun all under contract through the 2024-2025 season.

After missing the first 16 games of the season due to injury, the 24-year-old defenseman has registered three goals, ten assists, a plus-8 rating, and 56 shots since his return. On top of his offensive output, Chychrun provides shutdown defense and is genuinely one of the best young defensemen in the NHL. The Left shot defenseman would make a perfect partner for McAvoy on the top pair and allow Lindholm to anchor the second pairing giving the Bruins an elite top four.

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