The Boston Bruins are staring down the barrel of an offseason after a 33-39-10 season. With $20-25 million in cap space, they have a chance to rebuild and move on from this underwhelming year.
But where do they start? And who’s at the top of their list?
Cap Space Opens Doors, But Who’s Available?
“This is the spot they’re in. They’re gonna have $20-25 million in cap space to spend this offseason,” said George Balekji on NESN’s Boston Has Entered The Chat podcast. “We know Mitch Marner is a big free agent that could hit the open market, but how much does he want in AAV after they just spent a lot on Elias Lindholm? And also the reality of does he hits the open market? Does Toronto figure things out?”
Balekji makes a great point. Star players like Marner rarely hit the open market. Instead, teams work out trades or extensions before that.
“It’s like when a wide receiver is supposed to be a free agent in the NFL,” Balekji said. “The good players, like a Mitch Marner, they don’t hit the open market. If anything, they get traded like we saw happen between Carolina and the Stars and Montreal.”
Why Mitch Marner Could Be the Perfect Fit for Boston?
Taken 4th overall by the Toronto Maple Leafs in the 2015 NHL Draft, Mitch Marner is one of the league’s top offensive talents. Last season, he scored 27 goals and 100 points in 80 games. For a Bruins team that struggled to score all season, Marner would be the answer to their prayers.
The Maple Leafs have undergone a lot of changes over the past few years and have lost key pieces from their former stacked roster. If Toronto decides to move on from Marner, the Bruins could swoop in and add a top line winger.
Challenges Ahead: Cap Management and Trade Realities
Marner would definitely help the Bruins’ offense, but there are obstacles to consider. First, his price tag. After signing Elias Lindholm to a big deal, Boston has to decide how much term and money they are willing to commit to another top forward. Second, the likelihood of Marner even getting to free agency is slim. Toronto can extend him or trade him to a contender before July 1.
Still, Balekji’s comments remind us to be proactive. If Marner becomes available—whether via trade or free agency—the Bruins need to be ready to pounce.
Other Moves to Consider
Even if Marner doesn’t end up in Boston, the Bruins have the cap space to go after other big names. Whether it’s bolstering the blue line, adding depth at center or finding a reliable backup goalie, general manager Don Sweeney has the means to make some big moves.
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