The Boston Bruins have surprised more than a few people this season. With a 32-20-5 record, they’re sitting in the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference - a position that, a few months ago, didn’t feel like a lock. But here they are, very much in the playoff picture and looking like a team that’s not just trying to hold on, but actively trying to level up.
With the trade deadline approaching, Boston is expected to be in the mix. They’ve got a clear shot at the postseason, and with a few targeted moves, they could become a tougher out come April. Two areas in particular stand out as priorities: a top-four, right-shot defenseman and another top-six winger.
Bruins Trade Target No. 1: A Legitimate Top-Four, Right-Shot Defenseman
This one’s been on the radar for a while. The Bruins have been hunting for a top-four, right-shot defenseman, and they were reportedly in the mix for Rasmus Andersson before Calgary shipped him to Vegas.
That tells you where Boston’s head is at - they’re not just window shopping. They’re serious about upgrading the right side of their blue line.
Right now, they’ve got Henri Jokiharju and Andrew Peeke in the fold. Jokiharju brings some mobility and defensive awareness, and Peeke - a pending UFA - adds size and physicality.
But neither player checks the box as a true top-four option on a contending team. That’s the issue.
The Bruins need someone who can eat minutes, play in all situations, and bring stability behind Charlie McAvoy.
Adding a right-shot defenseman who can slide into the second pair would take pressure off the rest of the D-core and give head coach Jim Montgomery more flexibility with matchups. It’s not just about plugging a hole - it’s about rounding out a blue line that’s already got some strong pieces but needs one more to be playoff-ready.
Bruins Trade Target No. 2: A Top-Six Winger to Bolster the Offense
The second area that could use a boost is the forward group - specifically in the top six. Boston’s forward depth has held up reasonably well, but there’s still room to raise the ceiling.
Viktor Arvidsson and Casey Mittelstadt have both contributed solid minutes on the second line, but the Bruins could use another dynamic presence - someone who can drive play, finish chances, and create offense at 5-on-5. It’s not a knock on the current group; it’s about adding another weapon to help balance the lines and give the Bruins more scoring punch as the games get tighter.
A top-six addition would also allow Montgomery to spread the offense more evenly across three lines, which becomes crucial in the postseason grind. The Bruins have leaned heavily on their top players in big moments, and adding another reliable scoring option could go a long way in keeping the team fresh and competitive deep into the spring.
Final Thoughts
The Bruins are in a good spot - better than many expected - but the front office knows that standing pat probably isn’t the move. They’ve got a real shot at making noise in the playoffs, but to do that, they’ll need to shore up the right side of the defense and add another offensive difference-maker up front.
With the deadline looming, keep an eye on Boston. This is a team that’s shown it can hang in the race. Now it’s about making the right moves to ensure they don’t just get into the playoffs - but make a serious run once they’re there.