The Boston Bruins currently have Pavel Zacha and Charlie Coyle as their top two centers. That's prompted more speculation on who to target in the trade market.
Speculation over how the Boston Bruins would address the retirements of long-time centers Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci was a hot topic in this off-season's rumor mill.
The Bruins are heading into training camp with Pavel Zacha and Charlie Coyle centering their top two lines. Nevertheless, several pundits continue to ponder potential options outside the organization.
Boston Hockey Now's Jimmy Murphy cited Winnipeg Free Press reporter Mike McIntyre suggesting Jets center Mark Scheifele could make sense for the Bruins. This isn't the first time that Scheifele's been mentioned as a Bruins trade target. Murphy questioned if he'd be a good fit given his reputation as being difficult to coach.
The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun and Michael Russo reported Jets GM Kevin Cheveldayoff doesn't intend to move Scheifele or goaltender Connor Hellebuyck right now. It appears that the 30-year-old center will start the season in Winnipeg.
Murphy suggested Ottawa Senators center Shane Pinto as a trade option. There's reportedly a wide gap between the 22-year-old RFA and the Senators, who are pressed against the $83.5-million salary cap.
A source told Murphy that teams are looking into Pinto's availability. If the Senators peddle him, the asking price could be prospects who can crack the roster this season. So far, there's no indication they want to move the young center.
The Bruins could cast their eye toward next summer's free-agent market if they don't find any suitable trade options during this season.
Kevin Paul Dupont of The Boston Globe noted that Tampa Bay Lightning captain Steven Stamkos is eligible for UFA status next July. Dupont acknowledged it's too early to suggest Stamkos and the Bolts will part ways but believes the Bruins would be interested if he becomes available.