The Boston Bruins are facing a significant challenge when it comes to scoring goals during the first two months of the 2024-25 season. Despite firing former head coach Jim Montgomery and promoting Joe Sacco to interim head coach, the team’s struggles persist. As of December, the Bruins sit at the bottom of the NHL in goals per game (2.32) and power play percentage (12%). In their last three games, they were shut out by the Vancouver Canucks, managed six goals against the New York Islanders (ranked 21st in defense), and scored only one goal against the Pittsburgh Penguins, who allow the most goals per game.
After already firing their head coach, the focus has shifted to the trade market to find external help for the team’s offensive woes. Trades early in the season are rare, especially those that significantly alter a team’s trajectory. The Bruins face challenges with few high-end prospects, several underperforming players, limited draft picks, and a tight salary cap, making potential trades difficult. However, a few players may be available and could help the Bruins improve.
Trevor Zegras – Anaheim Ducks
Trevor Zegras has become a polarizing figure in the league. While his impressive stickhandling skills and flashy highlights are well-known, his scoring has been inconsistent. In 22 games this season, the 23-year-old has just four goals and six assists. Despite struggles, Zegras has been more productive recently, tallying six points in his last five games. Last season, injuries limited him to just 31 games, where he finished with six goals and 15 points. Despite high expectations following his back-to-back 60+ point seasons in 2021-22 and 2022-23, his production has not matched his potential. Zegras is under contract until 2026 at $5.7 million, and his struggles could make teams hesitant to pursue him. However, Zegras’ playmaking ability could benefit a team like Boston, who needs skilled forwards to support David Pastrnak. If Boston were to trade for him, it would likely involve sending a roster player like Trent Frederic or Morgan Geekie, along with some picks and possibly a retained salary.
Brandon Tanev – Seattle Kraken
The Seattle Kraken have had a tough start to the season and may become sellers as the trade deadline approaches. Brandon Tanev, a 32-year-old forward, could be on the move. Tanev has scored five goals and ten points in 25 games this season, playing mostly on the fourth line. While not as offensively skilled as Zegras, Tanev brings energy and a strong forecheck, fitting the Bruins’ system. Tanev’s contract, which expires at the end of this season, is more affordable at $3.5 million. With Seattle likely looking for prospects or picks, Tanev could be an attractive option for Boston, especially if they add second or third-round picks to the deal.
Taylor Hall – Chicago Blackhawks
A potential reunion with Taylor Hall could be on the horizon. Hall’s time in Boston was well-loved by fans, but salary cap constraints led to his trade to the Blackhawks in the offseason. After an injury-plagued start to the 2023-24 season, Hall has found his form, scoring a hat trick on Nov. 27 against the Dallas Stars, bringing his season total to five goals. Chicago, deep in a rebuild, might be open to trading Hall, especially given his desire for a Stanley Cup, which could motivate him to return to Boston. Hall is in the final year of his $6 million contract, and salary cap issues would need to be addressed, likely involving players like Frederic, Geekie, or a defenseman not named Charlie McAvoy, Hampus Lindholm, or Brandon Carlo.
Urgency to Act
Despite a recent win over the Montreal Canadiens, the Bruins’ 12-11-3 record places them fourth in the Atlantic Division, with competition from other Eastern Conference teams for a wild card spot. While the defense has improved and there have been signs of offensive progress, the Bruins need to make a move for a forward to solidify their playoff chances. General manager Don Sweeney will need to act quickly to bring in help before it’s too late.