The Bruins are being connected to two big-name centers.
The Bruins are being connected to two big-name centers.
The Boston Bruins are preparing for a big offseason. The Original Six club has roughly $21 million of cap space, so GM Don Sweeney is in a prime position to spend.
The Bruins' No. 1 objective will be to improve down the middle. It is a major necessity if the Bruins hope to become real contenders in the Eastern Conference. Because of this, NHL insider Elliotte Friedman named two free-agent targets for the Bruins during his latest edition of the 32 Thoughts Podcast - Elias Lindholm and Chandler Stephenson.
Lindholm has been heavily connected to the Bruins for quite some time. They expressed interest in him throughout the 2023-24 campaign, and there is no question that he would be a significant addition if acquired. This is because he is a top-six center who plays an incredibly dependable defensive game.
Lindholm, 29, appeared in 75 games this campaign split between the Calgary Flames and Vancouver Canucks, posting 15 goals and 44 points. While it was a down year, injury trouble was a factor. He also picked it up in the playoffs, recording five goals and 10 points in 13 games.
While Lindholm has been connected to the Bruins for quite some time, Stephenson is a new name being linked to the club. However, when noting that he is one of the top centers who can hit the market this offseason, it is understandable.
Stephenson, 30, was a vital part of the Vegas Golden Knights' top six over the last handful of seasons. This past season was another strong one for the nine-year veteran, as he had 16 goals and 51 points in 75 games. However, he has made an even more significant impact in the past, posting 64-point and 65-point campaigns in 2021-22 and 2022-23.
Ultimately, it would be huge if the Bruins landed Lindholm or Stephenson this offseason. Either of the pair would immediately improve their top six, and we will need to wait and see if the B's can lure one of them to Beantown from here.
Recent Bruins News
Bruins Star Goalie Linked to 6 Teams
Bruins Get Concerning Tyler Bertuzzi Update
What the Bruins CEO Said About Top Management
Bruins Forward Likely Done in Boston