The Boston Bruins may have just sidestepped a major long-term cap headache - and they have Rasmus Andersson’s hesitation to thank for it. According to reports, the Bruins had a deal in place with the Calgary Flames for the veteran defenseman, but the trade hinged on Andersson agreeing to a long-term extension.
When that didn’t materialize, Boston wisely backed out. Word is, the extension would’ve come in at around $9 million per year - a steep price tag for a player who, while solid, may not be worth anchoring your blue line budget around for the next several years.
So now, Boston’s search for a veteran right-shot defenseman continues. And one name that’s resurfacing in trade conversations?
Justin Faulk of the St. Louis Blues.
This isn’t the first time Faulk and the Bruins have been linked. Boston’s right side has been a bit of a soft spot behind Charlie McAvoy, and Faulk - at his peak - looked like a perfect fit to help shoulder that load.
A few seasons ago, when Faulk was producing at a clip north of 0.60 points per game, adding him would’ve been a no-brainer. While he’s not quite at that level anymore, he’s still logging over 22 minutes a night and is on pace for what could be his highest goal total yet.
That said, it’s worth noting that goal totals can sometimes be a bit misleading - especially when shooting percentages are running hot. Faulk’s offensive numbers this season are trending up, but that doesn't necessarily mean he’s regained his prime form. Still, there’s value in a dependable, experienced defenseman who can eat minutes and contribute on both ends of the ice.
From a roster-building standpoint, the fit makes sense. The Bruins are in win-now mode, and Faulk brings postseason experience and a steady presence to a group that could use a little more depth on the back end.
He’s under contract for one more season after this one at $6.5 million - a manageable number if Boston is only thinking short-term. That kind of deal gives GM Don Sweeney some flexibility.
He wouldn’t necessarily need to lock Faulk up long-term, and Faulk’s style of play doesn’t raise major red flags in terms of injury risk or durability.
But here’s the wrinkle: the asking price.
St. Louis might be heading toward seller territory.
There are rumblings that the Blues could be open to moving key pieces like Robert Thomas and Jordan Kyrou, and even Stanley Cup-winning goaltender Jordan Binnington has been floated as a possible trade chip. In that kind of environment, Faulk becomes a logical candidate to move - especially with only one year left on his deal.
The problem for Boston is that the package they had lined up for Andersson likely isn’t on the table anymore. And the closer we get to the trade deadline, the more Faulk’s price could climb - especially if other contenders come calling. Yes, Faulk could help stabilize Boston’s blue line and add a veteran presence for a playoff run, but Sweeney has to be careful not to overpay.
This is a team that’s already made smart decisions to avoid tying itself to risky long-term deals. Staying disciplined at the deadline will be just as important.
If the price is right, Faulk could be a strong addition. But if the bidding war gets out of hand, Boston might be better off looking elsewhere - or waiting for the market to cool.