The Bruins will have some trade candidates to watch if they take a step back this season.
The Boston Bruins are entering the 2026-27 season looking to take another step forward after their successful 2025-26 campaign.
Yet, with multiple teams in the Atlantic Division getting better, there is a possibility that the Bruins could drop in the standings next season. If the Bruins end up falling back down to Earth this campaign and are not in the playoff race near the trade deadline, it would open the door for them to move out some players.
Because of this, let's look at three Bruins who could be traded this season if their campaign goes south.
Pavel Zacha
If the Bruins end up not being a playoff team this year and Pavel Zacha still does not have a contract extension by the deadline, he would be Boston's top trade chip. Contenders are always on the hunt for top-six centers, so a player like Zacha could get the Bruins a strong return if they shop him this season.
This is especially so if Zacha has another excellent season in 2026-27 like he did this past year. In 78 games with the Bruins last season, he set career highs with 30 goals, 35 assists, and 65 points.
Casey Mittelstadt
Casey Mittelstadt would be a player to keep an eye on if the Bruins are not a playoff team this season. The 27-year-old forward is entering this campaign as a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA) and could be a popular rental target for playoff teams looking for a boost in their middle six.
Mittelstadt's ability to play both center and the wing also could make him an appealing target to playoff clubs if the Bruins shop him this season. In 71 games last season for Boston, he posted 15 goals, 27 assists, and 42 points. He also recorded a career-high 59 points in 2022-23 and 57 points in 2023-24.
Sean Kuraly
Sean Kuraly may not the flashiest player, but there would likely be a trade market for him if the Bruins struggle and make him available this season. The pending UFA center would be a good addition for a playoff club's fourth line and penalty kill if acquired.
Kuraly's playoff experience could also lead to teams calling, as he has played in 63 post-season games. In 82 games last season for Boston, he posted six goals, 22 points, and 87 hits. He also had a goal and an assist in six playoff games for the Black and Gold.
