Bruins & Islanders Could Strike Big Trade
The Bruins have an interesting player worth pursuing from the Islanders.
© Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports - Bruins & Islanders Could Strike Big TradeThe Boston Bruins will certainly look to add a top-six center this offseason. They are entering the summer with just under $21 million of cap space and are in a position to make at least one notable addition to their forward group because of it.
However, this year's free agency class does not offer too many big-name centers. Elias Lindholm is expected to be their top target, but if he re-signs with the Vancouver Canucks or lands elsewhere, their options will be very limited.
Pending UFA, Steven Stamkos would be an excellent player to add, but the general feeling is that he will work something out with the Tampa Bay Lightning. After that, there are Sean Monahan and Chandler Stephenson, but they may be better suited for a middle-six role.
As a result, there is a chance that the Bruins could also browse the trade market for a much-needed top-six center. One player who should immediately grab their attention is New York Islanders forward Brock Nelson.
There have been some rumblings over the prospect of the Islanders trading Nelson. He is entering the final season of his contract, and the Islanders likely do not want to lose him for nothing next summer.
If Nelson is officially made available, he would be a clear target for the Bruins. The Minnesota native has really stepped up his game over the last three seasons, as he has had over 30 goals in each. This past season was another good year for the veteran, posting 34 goals and 69 points in 82 games. He also had 36 goals and 75 points the season before.
Nelson would give the Bruins a high-impact scoring center in their top six, so he is worth taking a real look at. This is especially true if they strike out on the bigger fish in free agency.
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