With the NHL Olympic break just around the corner, the trade winds are starting to pick up. A few deals have already gone down, but once the league hits pause, expect the phones to light up. GMs will be looking to reshuffle, reload, or cash in-especially with the playoff picture starting to take shape.
In Boston, all eyes are on what Don Sweeney decides to do. The Bruins are hovering in that zone where a hot week could push them into contender status-or a cold one could trigger a sell-off.
But even if Sweeney stands pat, there are a handful of former Bruins making the rounds on trade boards across the league. Let’s take a closer look at four ex-B’s who could be on the move before the deadline-and what makes their situations so intriguing.
Dougie Hamilton - New Jersey Devils
Dougie Hamilton’s name has been floating in trade rumors for a while now, and it’s easy to see why. When healthy, Hamilton is a top-pairing defenseman with size, skill, and offensive instincts that can tilt the ice.
But moving him is going to be a challenge. He’s carrying a $9 million cap hit through the 2027-28 season and has a 10-team no-trade clause baked into his deal.
That’s not the kind of contract you move on a whim. It’ll take a team with cap space, a need on the blue line, and a real desire to make a splash.
Still, Hamilton’s upside is undeniable. For a contender looking to bolster its back end with a power-play quarterback and a big-minute guy, there’s a lot to like-if the money can be worked out.
Charlie Coyle - Columbus Blue Jackets
Charlie Coyle’s journey has taken a few turns in the last year. After being dealt to Colorado at last season’s deadline, he hit free agency and landed a one-year deal with the Blue Jackets. Now, he’s once again in the rental conversation.
Coyle’s value comes from his versatility. He can play center or wing, has a strong two-way game, and brings a ton of playoff experience.
He recently hit the 1,000-game milestone, which speaks to his durability and consistency over the years. His contract includes a three-team no-trade clause, but that’s not a huge hurdle.
For a team looking to shore up its bottom six-or even plug a hole in the middle-Coyle is a name to watch.
Brandon Carlo - Toronto Maple Leafs
Brandon Carlo’s stint in Toronto hasn’t exactly gone according to plan. After being acquired at last year’s deadline, he’s struggled to find his footing.
The $4.1 million AAV he carries through 2026-27 is manageable, especially for a 6-foot-5, right-shot defenseman. But the wear and tear is starting to show.
Carlo’s injury history is well-documented, and another grind-it-out season hasn’t helped. When he’s on, he’s a reliable shutdown presence.
But when he’s out-or playing through something-his game suffers. Complicating matters is the fact that Fraser Minten, who went the other way in the deal, is making waves in Boston.
That’s only added fuel to the fire among Leafs fans who are eager to see a change. If Toronto decides to pivot, Carlo could be one of the first names out the door.
Jake DeBrusk - Vancouver Canucks
Jake DeBrusk’s move to Vancouver came with high hopes-and a hefty commitment. The winger signed a long-term deal that carries a $5.5 million AAV through the 2030-31 season, along with a no-movement clause. That’s a big swing for a player who’s shown flashes of brilliance but has also struggled with consistency.
When DeBrusk is locked in, he’s a difference-maker. He can play in all situations, bring energy, and chip in offensively.
But with that talent comes some unpredictability. Teams know what they’re getting-and what they might have to manage.
For a contender willing to take the gamble, the upside is there. But it’s a question of whether the juice is worth the squeeze.
As the deadline approaches, these four former Bruins could find themselves packing their bags once again. Whether it’s cap gymnastics, playoff pushes, or just a change of scenery, the trade market is heating up-and familiar names are right in the thick of it.