With just six days left until the NHL trade deadline, the rumor mill is buzzing as teams get back into action post-Olympic break. The Boston Bruins are in the spotlight after a solid 4-2 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets, and they're gearing up to face the Flyers in Philadelphia on Saturday.
These next three games could be pivotal in shaping General Manager Don Sweeney's strategy. The Bruins have been linked to several trade rumors, notably their recent attempt to snag Rasmus Andersson from the Calgary Flames, which didn't pan out. It seems Boston is keen on bolstering both their defense and forward lines.
Anthony Di Marco of The Fourth Period has highlighted three St. Louis Blues players as potential targets for the Bruins: Justin Faulk, Robert Thomas, and Brayden Schenn. These names could be on Sweeney's radar as he navigates the trade landscape in the coming days.
Hampus Lindholm's Influence on Mason Lohrei
In the recent win over the Blue Jackets, Bruins head coach Marco Sturm paired young defenseman Mason Lohrei with seasoned veteran Hampus Lindholm. This strategic move has Lohrei playing on his offside, a challenge every defenseman faces at some point.
Lindholm, reflecting on his own early career experiences, sees the pairing as beneficial: “I was in a similar position when I entered the league. Playing alongside a veteran helped me, and I think I can provide the same support for Mason. We’re both big, agile players, and if we maintain our inside positioning, we’ll be tough to contend with.”
As the deadline approaches, Lohrei's future with the team remains uncertain. While prospect Matthew Poitras is reportedly on the trading block, with Sweeney, anything is possible.
Michael DiPietro's Brief NHL Appearance
In the game against Columbus, Michael DiPietro found himself unexpectedly in the spotlight. After Joonas Korpisalo took a hit to the head from Blue Jackets' forward Miles Wood, DiPietro was called in as Korpisalo underwent a brief concussion protocol. DiPietro made two crucial saves before Korpisalo returned to the ice.
Reflecting on his brief stint, DiPietro said, “I’m just glad it was quick and he was back out there. He played a fantastic game. I’m just happy I didn’t mess it up for the team.”
Following this, DiPietro was reassigned to the Providence Bruins in the AHL, with Jeremy Swayman stepping back into the lineup for the upcoming game against the Flyers.
As the trade deadline looms, all eyes will be on the Bruins to see how their roster might change in the final stretch of the season.