This former Bruins trade target will likely test the free-agent market this summer.
This former Bruins trade target will likely test the free-agent market this summer.
Leading up to the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline, the Boston Bruins were one of the frontrunners to acquire Joel Edmundson from the Washington Capitals. However, the veteran defenseman instead got dealt to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Yet, his future in Toronto is now not set in stone.
According to The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta, Edmundson plans to test free agency on July 1 to see all of his options. In addition, Pagnotta noted that while this is the case, Edmundson has not shut the door on a return to Toronto.
With Edmundson expected to hit the market and a player who Bruins GM Don Sweeney has liked in the past, it will be interesting to see if they make a push for him again. Derek Forbort, a fellow left-shot shutdown defenseman, is not expected to be back. However, at the same time, Parker Wotherspoon showed this season that he can handle playing bottom-pairing minutes.
Regardless of whether or not the Bruins target Edmundson again this summer, he should have a pretty big market. NHL teams will forever value big hard-hitting defensemen, so Edmundson should get a decent deal in free agency. It also does not hurt that he has plenty of experience and a Stanley Cup on his resume.
In 53 regular-season games this season split between the Capitals and Maple Leafs, Edmundson had one goal, six points, 65 blocks, and 80 hits. In seven playoff games for the Leafs, he had an assist.
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