If the Bruins traded this defenseman, it would come with risk.
Boston Bruins defenseman Brandon Carlo has found himself in the rumor mill as we continue to get closer to the 2025 NHL trade deadline. On ABC during the Bruins' latest matchup against the Vegas Golden Knights, Emily Kaplan reported that the right-shot defenseman has generated trade interest, as relayed by WEEI's Scott McLaughlin.
It is understandable that Carlo has caught the eyes of some teams. He is a 6-foot-5 right-shot defenseman who plays top-four minutes and kills penalties. He also has plenty of playoff experience, so he would be a great addition for a contender.
However, any trade centering around Carlo would undoubtedly come with risk for the Bruins. While the 28-year-old blueliner has had a shaky season, he has been a crucial part of their defense for several years. Trading him would also create a large hole in Boston's top four, which wouldn't be particularly easy to fix. This is especially so when noting that he is Boston's top stay-at-home defenseman.
Teams value dependable right-shot defensemen with size, and Carlo is just that when playing at his best. He is also signed at a reasonable $4.1 million cap hit until the completion of the 2026-27 season. Finding a potential top-four, right-shot defenseman replacement for Carlo in free agency would likely be more expensive.
In 56 games this season, Carlo has one goal, nine points, 56 hits, 108 blocks, and a plus-3 rating. This is after he had four goals, 14 points, and a plus-23 rating in 76 games last season with the Original Six club.