The Bruins’ summer work looks mostly finished, but the roster picture on defense still leaves room for one more twist.
Boston has already seen both of its notable UFAs, Viktor Arvidsson and Andrew Peeke, move on to new homes. The biggest addition up front is JJ Peterka, who stands out as an elite pickup for the Bruins’ top six. On the blue line, the team brought in Will Borgen and Connor Clifton on the right side, giving Boston as many as 10 defensemen in the mix for next season.
That kind of depth creates a problem as much as it creates options. At the moment, the Bruins appear likely to have to expose three defensemen to waivers in the fall.
Mason Lohrei’s name has been in rumors all spring and summer, but nothing has come together, and Boston may not be as eager to move him as some expected. Jordan Harris is likely headed for Providence after a season defined by a major injury and more time in the press box than on the ice.
Frederic Brunet is another name to watch. By all accounts, including Don Sweeney’s, he looks like someone who will be going full speed for a roster spot in camp, and his offensive upside only makes the competition more interesting.
Nikita Zadorov and Jonathan Aspirot seem safe for now, but the numbers keep the door open for surprises. With so many players pushing for jobs, it would not be shocking if one of those two is moved by the fall. If training camp breaks a certain way, the Bruins might even try to slip Aspirot through waivers again, as they did last fall.
Zadorov could also be the kind of player who draws interest if the right offer lands on the table, especially given his contract and the 16-team no-trade clause attached to it.
Hampus Lindholm is the one clear lock on the left side, thanks to both his talent and his full no-move clause.
So the Bruins are staring at a crowded situation: six NHL-caliber defensemen battling for three spots. That can wait until fall, but another summer move still can’t be ruled out, particularly if Boston decides it wants to add more help up front.
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