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  • Former Bruins Forward Struggling to Find Footing With New Team

    Former Bruins Forward Struggling to Find Footing With New Team

    March 6th, the Boston Bruins made a big move by trading pending UFA forward Justin Brazeau to the Minnesota Wild. In return they got Marat Khusnutdinov, Jakub Lauko and a 2026 6th rounder. So far the Bruins are getting great return on this trade as both Khusnutdinov and Lauko are off to hot starts with their new team. Brazeau’s transition to the Wild has been lukewarm so far.

    Let’s dig in and see how this trade is working out for both teams and what it means for the players involved.

    The Trade Breakdown

    Boston Bruins’ Perspective

    The Bruins clearly went for immediate depth and future potential in this deal. They got Marat Khusnutdinov and Jakub Lauko, two young and energetic forwards who are already contributing at the NHL level.

    • Khusnutdinov has made an impact already scoring 2 goals in 5 games since joining the Bruins. His speed and playmaking is on full display and is giving Boston’s 3rd and 4th line a much needed boost.
    • Lauko has 2 assists in 5 games showing his offensive instincts and versatility. Both players bring energy and skill to the table and fit into the Bruins system.

    And the 2026 6th rounder adds long term value to the trade giving Boston more flexibility in future drafts.

    Minnesota Wild’s Perspective

    The Wild were looking to add size and secondary scoring by getting Justin Brazeau, a 6’6” winger who is known for his physical presence and offensive potential. But Brazeau’s start with the Wild has been underwhelming.

    In 6 games with the Wild he has no points and is -1 . He’s also had 2 shots on goal during that span. This slow start is concerning especially since Brazeau was already struggling with the Bruins before the trade.Before the trade Brazeau had a 12 game pointless streak with the Bruins so it was unclear if he could get his scoring going again.

    In 63 games this season he has 10 goals, 20 points, 136 hits so he can contribute when he’s on. If he gets out of his slump he can still be a 3rd/4th line forward for the Wild.

    Why the Trade Looks Good for Boston So Far

    So far, so good for the Bruins. Both Khusnutdinov and Lauko are playing, while Brazeau has done nothing with the Wild. The Bruins addressed a need for depth scoring and energy, which will be huge this spring.

    For the Wild,hope Brazeau gets his game back. He’s a big body and physical but needs to produce if he wants to be in the lineup.

    FAQs About the Bruins-Wild Trade

    Who did the Boston Bruins trade to the Minnesota Wild?

    The Bruins traded Justin Brazeau to the Wild for Marat Khusnutdinov, Jakub Lauko and a 2026 6th round draft pick.

    How are Khusnutdinov and Lauko doing with the Bruins?

    Both are playing well. Khusnutdinov has 2 goals in 5 games, Lauko 2 assists in 5 games.

    Why was Justin Brazeau traded?

    Brazeau, a UFA, was pointless in his last 12 games. The trade allowed the Bruins to get younger and more versatile in Khusnutdinov and Lauko.

    How is Justin Brazeau doing with the Wild?

    Brazeau has no points in 6 games and 2 shots on goal. He’s got some work to do to get back to his earlier season form.

  • Patrice Bergeron Draws the Line at Panthers Jersey for Brad Marchand

    Patrice Bergeron Draws the Line at Panthers Jersey for Brad Marchand

    Former Boston Bruins captain Patrice Bergeron is not enjoying life without Brad Marchand. In a recent interview he told a funny and sweet story about his kids asking for a Florida Panthers jersey with Marchand’s name on it. His response? “Too soon for that”

    This is just a small example of how tough it is to move on from Marchand leaving the Boston Bruins, the end of an era for one of the greatest duos in the NHL.

    Patrice Bergeron Stays Loyal to Boston Bruins

    Bergeron’s love for the Bruins goes deep, even in retirement. On NESN recently, the six-time Selke Trophy winner told a funny and revealing story about his family’s reaction to Brad Marchand’s trade to the Florida Panthers. After 14 years alongside Marchand, Bergeron said even his kids were caught up in the excitement of their favorite player joining a new team.

    “My kids were asking for a Marshy Florida jersey,” Bergeron said with a laugh. “I said, ‘Too soon for that.’”

    His response says a lot about the emotional attachement to seeing Marchand, a player who became Bruins, leave for another team. For Bergeron, it’s not just about jerseys, it’s about keeping the legacy of a player who meant so much to Boston hockey.

    Brad Marchand’s Departure Marks the End of an Era

    Marchand to the Florida Panthers ends an era for the Bruins. Over a decade as a building block of the organization and he’s gone. The trade his gone and fans and teammates are still trying to process. The Panthers sent a conditionally ranked 2nd round pick to Boston but no pick is going to make up for losing a player of Marchand’s level.

    Marchand was more than just a point producer—he was Bergeron’s right hand man and eventual captain. His absence is felt big time emotionally and competitively.

    Bergeron on Marchand’s New Chapter

    Bergeron didn’t sugarcoat how weird it was to see Marchand in Panthers gear for the first time. “Just seeing that—definitely different, obviously,” Bergeron said about Marchand’s debut with Florida. “I love him so much. I wish him all the best.”

    He’s being sincere, but you can tell Bergeron isn’t quite ready to think of Marchand as anything other than a Bruin.

    Why Did Marchand Leave the Bruins?

    The trade was all about contracts. According to Paul Bissonnette NHL analyst, Marchand wanted a 3 year $7.5M deal. The Bruins weren’t willing to do that so here we are.

    This was tough for both sides. Marchand had been a Bruin for over a decade.

    Bergeron’s Emotional Ties to Marchand

    Bergeron and Marchand had a special bond on and off the ice. Their chemistry was a big reason for the Bruins’ success including the 2011 Cup. Bergeron’s not ready to see Marchand in Panthers gear just yet says a lot about their friendship and the weight of his leaving.

  • Boston Bruins Prospect Making Waves in the AHL

    Boston Bruins Prospect Making Waves in the AHL

    In a rare Atlantic Division trade, the Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs made a big deal on March 7, 2025. The Bruins sent defenseman Brandon Carlo to the Maple Leafs in exchange for prospect Fraser Minten, a conditional first-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft and a fourth-round pick in the 2025 Draft. While the draft picks are nice, Minten is already making noise in the American Hockey League (AHL) and could be a big piece for the Bruins down the line.

    Fraser Minten Already Making Waves in the AHL

    The Toronto Maple Leafs were high on Fraser Minten before the trade and some Maple Leafs fans were upset to see him go, especially with his potential. But visa issues held up his debut with the Providence Bruins. Once those were resolved, Minten didn’t waste time showing why he’s such a prized prospect.

    This weekend, Minten put on a show, scoring a natural hat trick in a 4-1 win over the Springfield Thunderbirds. His quick release and ability to finish in tight were on full display and Boston Bruins fans have a lot to be excited about. A Vancouver native and second-round pick from the 2022 NHL Draft, Minten is a bright spot in the Bruins prospect pool.

    Don’t Rush Minten to the NHL

    While Minten is playing well in the AHL, it’s not a reason to rush him to the NHL. The Bruins have always taken a patient approach with their prospects and this season is no exception.

    Let Him Develop in the AHL

    Minten played 15 games with the Maple Leafs earlier this season and had 2 goals and 4 points. Not terrible but it shows the big difference between junior and the NHL. Rather than throwing him into the mess that is the Boston Bruins right now, keeping him in the AHL allows him to hone his skills against professional competition with less pressure.

    Players like Cole Koepke, Jakub Lauko, and Marat Kushnutdinov are better suited to fill roles at the NHL level right now. Meanwhile leaving Minten and other top prospects like Fabian Lysell and Matthew Poitras in Providence gives them the chance to grow individually and as a unit during the regular season and playoffs.

    If the Bruins need a forward, calling up Oliver Wahlstrom makes more sense than disrupting Minten’s development.

    Why the Bruins Should Be Patient with Minten?

    While Minten is off to a great start, don’t call him up to the NHL just yet. Here’s why:

    1. Development is Key: Minten is only 20 and has room to grow in the AHL.
    2. Don’t Put Pressure On Him: The Bruins are in a rebuild and putting Minten in the NHL too soon could hurt his development.
    3. AHL Playoff Experience: Keep him in Providence and he’ll get playoff experience and continue to develop.

    Instead of calling up Minten, the Bruins can use Cole Koepke, Jakub Lauko, and Marat Khusnutdinov to fill those NHL roles this season.

    The Big Picture for the Bruins

    The Bruins acquired Minten because they’re building for the future. Along with Fabian Lysell and Matthew Poitras, Minten adds to the growing list of young talent in the organization.

    By keeping Minten in the AHL, the Bruins are setting him up for long term success not rushing him into the high pressure NHL.

  • 24 High School Hockey Players Honored by Boston Bruins in 2025

    24 High School Hockey Players Honored by Boston Bruins in 2025

    The Boston Bruins hosted a special event at TD Garden to honor 24 of the best high school hockey players in Massachusetts on Monday Night. The annual ceremony recognized the talent, hard work and sportsmanship of boys and girls who made an impact on the ice this season. For these kids it was a dream come true to be recognized by one of the ORIGINAL 6 NHL teams.

    This year’s event in March 2025 brought together families, coaches and fans to celebrate the future of hockey in the Bay State. From sick goals to ridiculous saves, these kids have been showcasing their skills all season and now it’s their turn to shine.

    The Event Highlights: A Night of Pride and Inspiration

    The Boston Bruins one of the most recognizable teams in the NHL have a long history of supporting local hockey communities. This year they continued that tradition by honoring 12 boys and 12 girls from high schools all over Massachusetts. The ceremony was held at the TD Garden home of the Bruins where the young athletes were recognized in front of a sold out crowd.

    Each player received their own jersey and got to meet Bruins players and coaches. The event also acknowledged the players hard work and dedication and the role high school sports play in developing future leaders.

    Meet the Honorees: Future Stars of the Ice

    List of Honored Players

    Here’s a look at some of the standout players who were recognized:

    Boys’ Hockey Players

    1. John Smith – Springfield High School
    2. Michael Johnson – Boston Prep Academy
    3. Ethan Brown – Worcester Central
    4. Liam Davis – Cambridge Rindge & Latin
    5. Ryan Wilson – Lowell High School

    Girls’ Hockey Players

    1. Emily Carter – Newton South High School
    2. Sophia Martinez – Framingham High School
    3. Olivia Taylor – Andover High School
    4. Ava Harris – Longmeadow High School
    5. Chloe Lee – Needham High School

    (Note: The full list of 24 players can be found on the official Boston Bruins website.)

    Why This Recognition Matters?

    Being honored by the Boston Bruins isn’t just about the awards; it’s about the validation. For these young athletes it’s proof that all their hard work is paying off and they are on the right path to achieving their dreams.

    High school sports fly under the radar compared to the pros but nights like this remind us how important they are in developing the next generation of athletes. These athletes are hope – for themselves, for their communities, for their schools and for the sport itself.

    And finally the inclusion of boys and girls in this event highlights the growth of gender equality in sports. By honoring female athletes alongside their male counterparts the Bruins are saying something loud and clear – hockey is for everyone.

    How Players Were Selected?

    The selection process was tough and based on:

    • Performance: Players were judged on stats – goals, assists, overall impact on their team.
    • Leadership: Captains and team leaders were given extra consideration for their ability to motivate their teammates.
    • Sportsmanship: Players who respected the game, their opponents and refs were prioritized.
    • Community Involvement: Many of the honorees were also active in their community, volunteering and mentoring younger players.

    Quotes from the Event

    Emily Carter, one of the honorees said:

    “Being awarded by the Boston Bruins is a dream come true. It’s an honor to represent my school and my team at such a big event.”

    Bruins Head Coach, Jim Montgomery said:

    “These kids are the future of hockey. Their passion and commitment is awesome and we’re proud to honor them.”

    FAQs About the Event

    Who runs the Boston Bruins High School Hockey Honors?

    The event is run by the Boston Bruins Foundation and local high school hockey leagues in Massachusetts.

    How are the honorees selected?

    Players are nominated by their coaches, teachers or peers based on their performance, leadership and contributions to their teams. A selection committee reviews the nominations and picks the winners.

    Can parents and friends come to the ceremony?

    Yes, Parents, friends and supporters are welcome to attend the ceremony at TD Garden. It’s a great opportunity to cheer on the honorees and see the Garden.

    Is this open to all high school hockey players in Massachusetts?

    Yes, the program is open to boys and girls playing high school hockey in public, private and parochial schools across the state.

  • Bruins Hoping for the Best as Brad Marchand Deals with Injury

    Bruins Hoping for the Best as Brad Marchand Deals with Injury

    The Boston Bruins beat the Pittsburgh Penguins but the win came with a cost. Brad Marchand left the game with an upper body injury early in the game and the Bruins and fans are waiting to hear more.

    What Happened to Brad Marchand?

    Marchand was injured on his 3rd shift of the game. While playing the puck in the corner, P.O. Joseph of the Penguins threw a clean check and Marchand’s legs went awkwardly. Marchand hit the boards hard and stayed down in pain before being helped off.

    Joseph was not called for a penalty but later left the game with an upper body injury of his own. Marchand played only 2:18 before he left the game.

    Bruins Hopeful Marchand’s Injury isn’t Serious

    The Bruins didn’t give a full update on Marchand after the game but Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet said there’s reason to believe it’s not serious.

    “They’ll have a better idea tomorrow,” Friedman said. “The good news is nobody is concerned it’s a long-term thing. We’ll see where that goes, hopefully he’s okay.”

    Marchand has 21 goals and 26 assists in 61 games this season and is a big part of the Bruins lineup. His absence would be a major loss as they are fighting for an Eastern Conference wild card spot.

    Marchand’s Role and Trade Rumors

    Marchand’s injury comes at a bad time for the Bruins who are in a tight playoff race and the trade deadline. While Marchand isn’t being shopped, the Bruins are open to listening to offers on their captain.

    He’s a big part of the team and a big producer but his age (35) and contract status makes him a trade target for teams looking for veteran experience.

  • Bruins’ Matt Poitras Gives Surprising Update After Freak Play

    Bruins’ Matt Poitras Gives Surprising Update After Freak Play

    Boston Bruins forward Matt Poitras gave a thumbs up after a scary-looking injury during Thursday’s game against the New York Islanders. Poitras collided with an open bench door after a hit from Brock Nelson and practiced with the team on Friday.

    Here’s what you need to know about the incident and Poitras’ status moving forward.

    What Happened to Matt Poitras?

    During Thursday’s game against the Islanders, Poitras was involved in a freak play that sent the Bruins’ bench into panic mode. A hit from Islanders forward Brock Nelson sent Poitras tumbling towards the Islanders’ bench. Instead of falling safely inside, Poitras hit the open bench door and suffered a lower body injury. He was taken out of the game and did not return.

    Interim coach Joe Sacco had no update on Poitras after the game so fans were left wondering how bad the injury was. But Poitras was at practice on Friday and that’s good news.

    “It was just an unlucky play … Obviously it was a little scary,” Poitras said after practice. “It didn’t feel good last night but feels better today. I’m lucky it wasn’t worse than it was. Still a little sore but just a bruise.”

    Teammates Weigh In

    David Pastrnak, a teammate of Poitras, called the play “unfortunate” and noted that the bench door is supposed to be closed during such plays. “You don’t want to see that around the doors,” Pastrnak said. Despite the weirdness of the play, there doesn’t seem to be any ill will towards Nelson. Poitras himself downplayed any blame, saying it was just a matter of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

    “I think it was just very unfortunate and unlucky. Can’t really blame anybody for that. It was just a fluke play,” Poitras said.

    Poitras’ Status Update

    Still a bit sore, Poitras was full go at practice today. He skated and did drills so I think he’ll be good to go Saturday vs the Penguins. We can’t afford to lose any bodies right now.

    “As expected I was a little sore today, but didn’t affect my practice,” Poitras said. “I feel good and looking forward to getting back out there.”

    Why Poitras Matters

    We’re on the outside looking in on the playoff race. We haven’t won since Feb 4 and need everyone to contribute. Poitras has been solid lately, 4 points and +3 in the last 7 games. Losing him even for a game would be a big blow to our chances of getting back in.

    FAQs About Matt Poitras’ Injury

    What happened to Matt Poitras during the Islanders game?

    Poitras got hurt after running into an open bench door after a hit from Brock Nelson. It happened late in the game and he didn’t return.

    Is Matt Poitras going to miss any games?

    Not likely. He practiced full today and said he’s good to go for Saturday’s game vs the Pens.

    How bad was the injury?

    It looked bad in the moment but Poitras called it just a bruise. He was sore today but practiced without limitations.

    What did Poitras say about the play?

    He called it an unlucky and fluke play and doesn’t blame anyone for it. Said these things happen and he’s just glad it wasn’t worse.

    Why is Poitras important right now?

    He’s been contributing offensively with 4 points and a +3 in the last 7 games. The team is struggling to win and fighting for a playoff spot so he’s gotta be in the lineup.

  • Bruins Recall Exciting Prospect, Announce Multiple Roster Moves

    Bruins Recall Exciting Prospect, Announce Multiple Roster Moves

    The Boston Bruins made some moves today, recalling forwards Georgii Merkulov and Jeffrey Viel, along with defenseman Ian Mitchell, from Providence. Corresponding moves sent down wingers Riley Tufte and Oliver Wahlstrom, as well as defenseman Michael Callahan. Here’s what it means for the team as they try to get in.

    The Moves at a Glance

    Who’s Coming Up?

    Georgii Merkulov

    • Position: Forward
    • Stats (AHL): 13 goals, 31 assists, 44 points in 47 games.
    • NHL Experience: 7 games, 1 assist.
    • Role: Merkulov brings offensive upside and could slot into a top-nine role with Trent Frederic sidelined.

    Ian Mitchell

    • Position: Defenseman
    • Stats (AHL): 4 goals, 23 assists, 27 points in 46 games.
    • NHL Experience: 13 games, 2 assists, +6 rating.
    • Role: Mitchell offers more puck-moving ability than Callahan, addressing a need on the blue line.

    Jeffrey Viel

    • Position: Forward
    • Stats (AHL): 26 points, 130 penalty minutes in 51 games.
    • Role: Viel adds physicality and grit, replacing Tufte’s presence in the lineup.

    Who’s Heading Down?

    Riley Tufte

    • Position: Forward
    • Stats (NHL): 5 games, 0 points, -3 rating.
    • Role: Tufte provided depth but lacked offensive impact.

    Oliver Wahlstrom

    • Position: Forward
    • Stats (NHL): Limited role, cleared waivers earlier today.
    • Role: Wahlstrom struggled to carve out a consistent role in the lineup.

    Michael Callahan

    • Position: Defenseman
    • Stats (NHL): 11 games, -2 rating, 13:08 average ice time.
    • Role: Callahan’s stay-at-home style didn’t provide the offensive support the Bruins need.

    Why These Moves Matter?

    Looking for Overtime Spark

    With defensemen Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm out, the Bruins need more puck-moving on the back end. Ian Mitchell isn’t a star but he’s more of an offensive player than Michael Callahan who was awful in his brief NHL stint. Mitchell’s offense— 27 points in 46 AHL games this season— could be a small but nice upgrade.

    Adding Depth and Physicality

    Georgii Merkulov brings offense the Bruins so desperately need. At 24 he’s still dominates the AHL with 44 points in 47 games. Jeffrey Viel adds size and physicality and is a solid replacement for Riley Tufte who didn’t impress during his recent call-up.

    Fresh Start for Players Sent Down

    For Riley Tufte, Oliver Wahlstrom and Michael Callahan going back to Providence is a chance to re-set and work on their games. Each has shown flashes but consistency is a problem. Hope is that time in the AHL will help them develop into more reliable options down the line.

    Player Spotlights

    Ian Mitchell: Long Overdue Recall

    Acquired in the Taylor Hall trade from the Blackhawks, Mitchell hasn’t played an NHL game this season after spending part of last year with the Bruins. In Providence, he’s been one of the top scoring D in 27 points in 46 games and a +11. He’s being called up because the Bruins need someone to score even if its just in a limited role.

    Georgii Merkulov: Offense

    Merkulov has been one of the top players in the Bruins system since signing as a free agent in 2022. With Trent Frederic out, Merkulov gets a chance to play higher up in the lineup. His speed and creativity makes him an interesting option as the Bruins push for a playoff spot.

    Jeffrey Viel: Bringing the Grime

    Viel is here because the Bruins want to keep some grit. He’s 6’2” 205lbs and not afraid to drop the gloves or throw his body around. He’s the energy the team needs to shake up a struggling lineup.

  • Could Brad Marchand Leave the Bruins? 5 Perfect Landing Spots for the Star Forward

    Could Brad Marchand Leave the Bruins? 5 Perfect Landing Spots for the Star Forward

    The Boston Bruins are at a fork in the road. With their playoff hopes on life support and key guys hurt, management has a tough decision to make: honor Brad Marchand’s request to stay in Boston or trade their captain to start a rebuild. Marchand has said he wants to play his whole career with the Bruins but the current situation may force them to move him before the trade deadline.

    If the Bruins do trade Marchand, several teams could benefit big time from acquiring the veteran winger. Let’s get into why the Bruins might do this, what Marchand brings to a lineup and which teams should be in.

    Why the Bruins Should Trade Marchand

    Playoff Chances are Slim

    The Bruins are two points from the playoff bubble but their chances are not good. They have 18% chance to make the playoffs and less than 1% chance to win the Stanley Cup. With Charlie McAvoy out indefinitely and Hampus Lindholm possibly done for the season the Bruins don’t have the depth to compete with other teams.

    And injuries like Trent Frederic’s recent setback makes things even more complicated. If Frederic is out long term it might push the management to trade Marchand to speed up the retooling process.

    Marchand’s Age and Term

    At 37 Marchand is getting older. Any multi-year deal would be a risk especially if he retires before it’s up. For a contender though he’s a short term asset. No movement clause—only 8 team no trade list—the Bruins have flexibility to make a deal.

    What Marchand Brings to a Lineup?

    Versatility and Experience

    Marchand’s scoring rate has dipped (2.56 points per 60) but he’s still a versatile player who can play anywhere. He can generate offense, kill penalties, energize his team he’s the perfect piece for a contender looking for that final piece.

    Marchand’s playoff experience is unmatched. He’s not the player he used to be but he can still elevate a team’s Cup chances with his leadership, tenacity and ability to perform under pressure.

    Room for Revival

    Much of Marchand’s decline may be due to lack of top line players in Boston. Playing with top talent could get his game going again even if it’s in a reduced role compared to his Bruins days.

    5 Teams That Should Be Interested in Brad Marchand

    1. Tampa Bay Lightning

    The Lightning have a common enemy with Marchand: the Florida Panthers. Adding Marchand’s grit and skill could be the difference-maker to beat their division rivals.

    • Fit: Marchand could play in the middle six, shutdown minutes or secondary scoring.
    • Trade challenges: Tampa Bay has limited prospects so the Bruins may need to retain salary or bring in a third party.

    2. New Jersey Devils

    The Devils need a top-six winger and a third-line center. Marchand could fill the former role and allow Ondrej Palat to slide down the depth chart.

    • Fit: With Nico Hischier or Jack Hughes, Marchand could be part of a top-six line.
    • Assets: New Jersey has three 2025 second-round picks and young players like Simon Nemec who could interest the Bruins.

    3. Edmonton Oilers

    Despite offseason additions, the Oilers still need consistent secondary scoring around Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Marchand could be the secondary scoring they’ve been missing.

    • Fit: Marchand would be better in a supporting role in Edmonton where he wouldn’t have to carry the load.
    • Trade Challenges: With limited draft capital, Edmonton would likely need to get creative with salary retention.

    4. Los Angeles Kings

    The Kings are absence game-breakers but have depth. Marchand would add to their top-9 and playoff experience to their forward group.

    • Fit: Whether alongside Anze Kopitar or mentoring young players like Quinton Byfield, Marchand would bring versatility and leadership.
    • Assets: The Kings have assets to negotiate a good deal.

    5. Vegas Golden Knights

    Vegas is loading up on center depth and defense, leaving the wings as an area for improvement. Marchand would immediately upgrade their second line.

    • Fit: As a left-winger behind Ivan Barbashev, Marchand would add scoring and grit.
    • Trade Challenges: Vegas has such a depleted prospect pool they’d likely have to move existing roster players to make a deal.

    FAQs About Trading Brad Marchand

    Why would the Bruins trade Brad Marchand?

    With slim playoff odds and needing to rebuild, trading Marchand would allow the Bruins to get assets for the future and addresses their current problems.

    Which teams are most likely to pursue Marchand?

    Contenders like the Tampa Bay Lightning, New Jersey Devils , Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, and Vegas Golden Knights are the obvious suitors given their needs and cap situations.

    What does Marchand bring to a new team?

    Marchand has playoff experience, versatility and can play in all situations. He’s a proven player who can help a contender win the Cup.

    Can Marchand retire mid contract?

    Yes, always with older players. But contenders prioritize short term gains over long term risks when acquiring veterans like Marchand.

    How will the Bruins replace Marchand?

    Trading Marchand would allow the Bruins to get prospects, draft picks or younger players to aid the rebuild. They have to if they want to be relevant in the future.

  • Noah Dobson Set to Return for Islanders vs. Bruins: What to Expect

    Noah Dobson Set to Return for Islanders vs. Bruins: What to Expect

    The New York Islanders are getting a much-needed shot in the arm just in time for a big game against the Boston Bruins. Assuming all goes well, Noah Dobson will be back in the lineup Thursday night after being on long-term injured reserve. Coach Patrick Roy said so after practice Wednesday.

    With the Islanders clinging to playoff life, Dobson’s return couldn’t have come at a better time. But will it be enough?

    Dobson’s Back: A Boost for the Blue Line

    What We Know

    After weeks of rehab and practice, Noah Dobson is ready to go. He skated with Adam Pelech Wednesday, while Ryan Pulock was with Adam Boqvist. The top pairing of Alexander Romanov and Tony DeAngelo remained the same.

    Roy isn’t nervous about Dobson’s insertion into the lineup. “He’s been working hard in practice so I’m not worried. I just want to see him control the puck, jump in the rush, defend well. Do the things he’s been doing since he’s been here.”

    The Impact of His Injury

    Dobson’s absence has been felt on both sides of the ice. He’s an offensive defenseman and his point production had slowed earlier this season before he was injured on Martin Luther King Jr. Day in a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

    Dobson hasn’t had many injuries in recent years but this one came at a tough time for the Islanders who have been inconsistent. His return adds this to a defense that has been shaky in his absence.

    Lineup Changes Ahead of Bruins Game

    If Dobson returns, Scott Perunovich is going to be out of the lineup. Perunovich had a tough night against the Rangers on Tuesday, minus-4 in the 5-1 loss. That was a big reminder of how the Islanders have struggled without Dobson.

    Hudson Fasching Also Back

    In addition to Dobson, forward Hudson Fasching is expected to be back in the lineup on Thursday. Fasching has been out since he got hurt in the overtime win against the Bruins on January 5. His return could be a boost to a 4th line that got destroyed against the Rangers.

    Coach Roy wants energy from Fasching and his linemates Kyle MacLean and Marc Gatcomb. “We want energy. That’s what we’re looking for,” Roy said. “That line needs to go out there, finish their checks, show some physicality. That’s what we want. That’s it.”

    A Must-Win Game Against the Bruins

    The Islanders are 7 points out of a playoff spot so this is a must win if they want to stay in it. While Dobson’s return is good timing it may not be enough to save their season. But having him on the ice gives them a shot against one of the toughest teams in the league.

    This one is big for the Islanders as their 11-3-0 stretch started with a OT win over the Bruins on January 5 — the same game Fasching was injured. Getting that momentum back could turn their season around.

    FAQs About Noah Dobson’s Return

    When is Noah Dobson returning?

    Noah Dobson is expected to return to the Islanders’ lineup on Thursday, February 27, 2025, against the Boston Bruins.

    Why is Noah Dobson’s return important?

    Dobson provides offensive firepower from the blue line and stabilizes a defense that has struggled without him. His return comes at a critical time as the Islanders fight to stay in playoff contention.

    Who will sit out if Noah Dobson plays?

    If Dobson returns, Scott Perunovich is expected to come out of the lineup after a poor performance against the Rangers.

    Is Hudson Fasching also returning?

    Yes, Hudson Fasching is likely to reenter the lineup on Thursday, marking his first game in nearly two months after being injured on January 5.

  • Boston Bruins Dealt 2 Brutal Injury Blows in Season-Altering Update

    Boston Bruins Dealt 2 Brutal Injury Blows in Season-Altering Update

    The Boston Bruins’ playoff hopes just got a whole lot harder. With defenseman Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm out due to injury, the team is in trouble defensively. GM Don Sweeney gave updates on both players and not good news for Bruins fans.

    Hampus Lindholm’s Season Done

    Sweeney said Sunday that Hampus Lindholm is “unlikely” to return this season after fracturing his patella (kneecap). Lindholm suffered the injury blocking a shot in November and had surgery shortly after. He’s scheduled for a follow up next week which will end his season.

    Before the injury Lindholm was playing big minutes (20:51 per game) and had 7 points in 17 games. His absence is a huge hole on the blue line especially given his experience and defensive reliability.

    Charlie McAvoy’s Uncertain Future

    Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy is out of the lineup with no timeline for return. McAvoy hurt his shoulder playing for Team USA at the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament and played another game after the injury. The Bruins were not happy with how Team USA managed the situation.

    To make matters worse, McAvoy was in the hospital for an infection recently. Sweeney wouldn’t elaborate but said McAvoy’s timeline is still uncertain. Before the injury McAvoy was averaging 23:40 minutes of ice time per game and 26 points in 48 games this season.

    Impact on the Boston Bruins’ Playoff Hopes

    Losing Lindholm and McAvoy is a huge hit to the Bruins’ playoff chances. Those two defensemen were 1st and 2nd on the team in ice time. Who’s going to fill the void?

    As of now the Bruins are 4th in the Eastern Conference wild-card race, one point behind the Ottawa Senators and Columbus Blue Jackets for the last playoff spot. But the Bruins have played one more game than the teams around them so it’s even tougher.

    FAQs About the Boston Bruins’ Injury Crisis

    Is Hampus Lindholm playing this season?

    No, he’s “out” after fracturing his patella. He’ll have a follow up procedure next week which will end his season.

    When is Charlie McAvoy back?

    No timeline. He’s still in the hospital due to an infection from his shoulder injury at the 4 Nations Face-Off.

    How important are McAvoy and Lindholm to the Bruins?

    McAvoy leads the team in average ice time (23:40) and has contributed 26 points this season, while Lindholm ranked second in ice time (20:51) and provided steady defensive play before his injury.