THN.com/podcast. Image [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MTk2MDk0NjEzMTYzODc3ODQ2/usatsi_20019586.jpg] The NHL's top team just got a whole lot better. The Boston Bruins got in on the pre-deadline action with a blockbuster trade of their own on Thursday evening, acquiring defenseman Dmitry Orlov and forward Garnet Hathaway from the Washington Capitals in exchange for a 2023 first-round pick, a 2025 second-round pick, a 2024 third-round pick, and forward Craig Smith. As per the terms of the deal, the Capitals have agreed to retain 50 percent of Orlov's salary while the Minnesota Wild retain an additional 25 percent, with the Bruins sending them a 2023 fifth-round pick. The Wild will also send the rights to 26-year-old Andrei Svetlakov to Boston. The move is obviously a major swing for the NHL-leading Bruins, who now add a legitimate top-pair defenseman and a difference-making bottom-six forward to a roster that was already among the best in the league. Orlov and Hathaway have both produced sterling possession numbers this season despite the Capitals' struggles, making one wonder what each could do with a better supporting cast. In 43 games this season, Orlov has racked up three goals and 16 assists for 19 points while averaging upwards of 22 minutes per game in ice time, while Hathaway has mustered nine goals and seven assists for 16 points in 59 games with an average workload of just over 12 minutes. In contrast to past deadline additions like Hampus Lindholm and Taylor Hall, Orlov, according to TSN's Chris Johnston [https://twitter.com/reporterchris/status/1628893652368982019?s=20], will likely be a pure rental, with the 31-year-old set to hit free agency this summer. The Capitals, on the other hand, recoup a major haul of draft capital for two expiring assets, moving towards replenishing a prospect pipeline that is among the weakest in the league. With the trade deadline still a little over a week away, there is little doubt that the market will slow down in the days to come. Stay tuned.
