The Boston Bruins are entering the off-season with plenty of cap space. That puts them in a position to do some spending this summer as they look to become a playoff-caliber team again.
There are certainly some interesting pending unrestricted free agents who can hit the market on July 1, like Mitch Marner, Brock Boeser, Nikolaj Ehlers, and Sam Bennett. However, there is also an argument to be had that the Bruins should target pending restricted free agents and explore the offer sheet route.
There are several interesting players who can hit the market as restricted free agents this summer, but one player who should grab the Bruins' attention is Buffalo Sabres winger JJ Peterka.
The Bruins definitely need to add at least one top-six winger this offseason, and a restricted free agent like Peterka could be an excellent addition because of it. The 23-year-old just had an impressive year with the Sabres, scoring 27 goals and setting new career highs with 41 assists and 68 points. This follows his breakout season in 2022-23, where he recorded 28 goals and 50 points in 82 games.
Peterka is clearly on his way to becoming a legitimate star in the NHL, making him a valuable potential target for the Bruins. If they can successfully sign him through an offer sheet, he would provide a significant boost to their offense.
When looking at a potential spot in the Bruins' lineup where Peterka could fit, the second-line right wing spot stands out. However, he can also play left wing, so he could be a marvelous addition to Boston's first line with David Pastrnak. Furthermore, he would be a clear option for the Bruins' power play if brought in.
The Sabres are also in a bit of a tough spot this summer. Besides Peterka, Bowen Byram, Jack Quinn, Ryan McLeod, and Jacob Bernard-Docker are all pending RFAs for Buffalo, too. Thus, things could get tight financially for Buffalo this summer.
Peterka was also the subject of trade rumors leading up to the deadline, so the Bruins could even consider making a push for him that way. Either way, a Peterka addition would be excellent for a Bruins team that needs far more offense. Let's see if they target him.
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