Bruins Eyeing Blue Line Help Ahead of Trade Deadline, Remain Linked to Justin Faulk
If there’s one thing we’ve learned about the Boston Bruins over the past few weeks, it’s that general manager Don Sweeney is actively searching for defensive reinforcements. January made that clear.
The Bruins were reportedly deep in talks with the Calgary Flames for right-shot defenseman Rasmus Andersson, and at one point, they looked like frontrunners to land him. But when contract extension talks hit a wall, Boston wisely backed off.
Trading for a player of Andersson’s caliber without long-term control just didn’t make sense - especially not at the price Calgary was likely asking.
Still, the pursuit of Andersson was a telling move. It sent a message: Boston is in the market for a right-shot defenseman, and they’re serious about it.
With the NHL’s Olympic break and roster freeze fast approaching - the freeze hits Tuesday, and games wrap up Thursday - teams are bracing for a quiet stretch in February before what promises to be a chaotic lead-up to the March 6 trade deadline. And while most moves are expected to go down after the freeze lifts, the groundwork is already being laid.
One name that continues to be linked to Boston is veteran St. Louis Blues defenseman Justin Faulk.
According to reports, Faulk has drawn interest from multiple teams looking to bolster their blue line with a right-shot presence. The Bruins, Stars, and Maple Leafs are all reportedly in the mix.
Faulk brings experience and a solid two-way game, but there are a few complicating factors. He carries a $6.5 million cap hit and has one year remaining on his deal after this season. He also holds a 15-team no-trade list, so any potential move would require his approval - and it’s still unclear whether Boston is a destination he’d be willing to consider.
From a fit perspective, Faulk checks some boxes. He’s steady, plays big minutes, and has been through playoff battles.
But he’s also older than Andersson and might not represent a significant enough upgrade to justify a steep price tag. That’s especially true when you consider the Bruins’ current cap situation and the likelihood that they’ll need to move someone - potentially Andrew Peeke - to make room.
The Bruins’ blue line has held up reasonably well this season, but there’s no denying that they could use a bit more stability and puck-moving ability on the right side. Whether Faulk is the answer depends on the ask. If the Blues are looking for a premium return, Sweeney may decide to keep his powder dry and look elsewhere.
One thing’s for sure: Boston isn’t standing pat. They’ve got their eyes on the market, and they’re not afraid to make a move if the right deal comes along. With the Olympic break giving front offices time to reset, expect the Bruins to stay active in trade chatter - and don’t be surprised if they circle back on Faulk or another right-shot option once the freeze lifts.