The Bruins recently signed Mark Kastelic to a contract extension. Who could be next?
The Boston Bruins made a notable move yesterday, signing forward Mark Kastelic to a three-year, $4.071 million contract extension. Given how wonderfully Kastelic has fit into the Bruins' roster, it was not surprising to see the gritty forward get an extension.
With Kastelic getting a new deal, let's look at three Bruins who could get extended next.
Brad Marchand
Bruins captain Brad Marchand is a clear extension candidate for the Bruins. The 36-year-old forward is in the final season of his deal and is still one of the Bruins' top stars. Thus, getting him signed to an extension should be a top priority for GM Don Sweeney.
Marchand has appeared in 40 games this season, posting 15 goals, 31 points, and a plus-4 rating. He also had an impressive 11-game point streak from Dec. 3 to Dec. 27, recording seven goals and 14 points over that span.
Justin Brazeau
Justin Brazeau is another Bruins pending UFA who stands out as a potential extension candidate. Since the 26-year-old winger arrived in the NHL last season, he has been a pleasant surprise for the Original Six club. He provides solid secondary scoring and grit to the Bruins' top nine, so he could be a player they look to keep around.
In 38 games this season, Brazeau has nine goals, 17 points, and 56 hits. He has also been heating up lately, posting three goals in his last five contests.
Cole Koepke
For the final player on this list, let's discuss Cole Koepke. After signing a one-year, two-way contract with the Bruins this off-season, he has shown that he belongs in the NHL. In addition, he has developed excellent chemistry with Kastelic and Johnny Beecher on the fourth line, so they could try to keep at an affordable price.
Koepke, 26, has set new career highs with six goals, five assists, 11 points, and 80 hits in 38 games this season with the Bruins. He also has a team-best plus-10 rating this campaign.