As the Olympic break hits pause on the NHL season, the Boston Bruins find themselves in a familiar - and somewhat surprising - position: right in the thick of the playoff race. After a season that many expected to be more transitional than competitive, the Bruins are ahead of schedule. And with the trade deadline looming on March 6, Boston may be shifting from cautious observers to aggressive buyers.
One name that’s gaining traction on the trade market? Vincent Trocheck.
The New York Rangers have made it clear they’re hitting the reset button. With Artemi Panarin already moved, Trocheck could be next in line. The veteran center, currently representing Team USA at the Winter Olympics, is drawing serious interest from contenders - and the Bruins are reportedly among the teams keeping tabs.
According to league insiders, Boston is seen as a logical landing spot for Trocheck. The reasoning is simple: the Bruins, like the Penguins, have outperformed expectations this season.
They’re in playoff position at the break and looking for reinforcements to solidify their status as legitimate contenders. Trocheck could be the kind of move that not only boosts their postseason push but also helps shape the team’s future.
Let’s break it down.
Trocheck brings a lot to the table. He’s a two-time NHL All-Star and a proven top-six forward with a strong two-way game.
This season, he’s posted 12 goals and 24 assists for 36 points in 43 games - production that speaks for itself. He’s not just a rental either.
Trocheck is in the fourth year of a seven-year, $39.375 million contract, carrying a $5.625 million cap hit for three more seasons. That’s the kind of term that could appeal to Boston’s front office, especially if they see him as a long-term fit down the middle.
For years, the Bruins have been searching for stability at center behind their top line. Trocheck could be the answer.
He’s the type of player who can slot into a variety of roles - power play, penalty kill, defensive zone starts - and still generate offense. That kind of versatility is gold come playoff time.
If the Bruins do pull the trigger, it signals more than just a short-term play. It would be a clear message that this team is ready to compete now - and for the seasons ahead.
Boston returns to action on February 26, hosting the Columbus Blue Jackets in their first game after the Olympic break. Whether or not Trocheck is wearing black and gold by then remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure: the Bruins are in the mix, and they’re not just looking to make the playoffs - they’re looking to make noise.