Bruins Face Tough Choice Regarding Matt Grzelcyk
What will the Bruins do with No. 48?
Throughout his eight-year NHL career, Matt Grzelcyk has been a member of the Boston Bruins. Over that time, the Massachusetts native has emerged as a key part of their blue line, primarily playing on the club's top pairing with star Charlie McAvoy. However, once the offseason rolls around, things may change on that front.
Grzelcyk, 30, is a pending UFA, and there hasn't been much chatter about the prospect of an extension. Given his importance to the Bruins' roster and chemistry with McAvoy, there's a chance that he could get a new deal. Yet, the Bruins could also look to go in a different direction.
Grzelcyk's 2023-24 season has been quiet. The left-shot defenseman has two goals and 10 points in 57 games. While he has remained steady defensively, his offense has been lower this season, which may create concern about inking him to a multi-year deal.
The free-agent market also could offer some solid top-four options this summer if the Bruins want to make a change. Noah Hanifin is, of course, the most notable pending UFA defenseman. The Bruins have notably tried to add him not only at the deadline but several other times since his draft year in 2015. They can offer him what he wants if he hits the market, as they are expected to have over $20 million of cap space this summer.
Other notable pending UFA left-shot defensemen include Brady Skjei, Shayne Gostisbehere, and Nikita Zadorov.
Nevertheless, the Bruins certainly have a big decision to make with Grzelcyk. There's no question that he has had a solid tenure with the club, but will the Bruins look to upgrade their top four this summer? Time will tell.
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