One clear area that the Boston Bruins should aim to improve this off-season is the right side of their defense. After trading Brandon Carlo at the 2025 NHL trade deadline to the Toronto Maple Leafs, they need a proven top-four, right-shot defenseman to replace him.
When looking at this year's pending unrestricted free agent (UFA) defensemen, Florida Panthers star Aaron Ekblad is the most notable. Other pending UFA right-shot defensemen who could hit the market on July 1 include Dante Fabbro, Nick Perbix, and Cody Ceci. Overall, they could have some potential options to consider through the free-agent market.
Yet, it appears that the Bruins are eyeing one of the NHL's top defenseman trade candidates. According to The Fourth Period, the Bruins are one of several teams reportedly linked to Calgary Flames blueliner Rasmus Andersson.
When looking at the Bruins' blueline, there is no question that it could use a defenseman like Andersson. This is because he would provide the Bruins' second pairing with a massive upgrade. In addition, due to his smart two-way play, he would give them another option to use for both their power play and penalty kill.
Bruins Could Find Top Six Solution With Ehlers
The start of free agency is right around the corner, as July 1 is less than a week away. The<a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/boston-bruins"> Boston Bruins</a> are going to be a team to watch incredibly closely during it, as they have a ton of money to work with.
Another very appealing factor about Andersson is that he has shown throughout his career that he can handle big minutes. Furthermore, at 28 years old, he is right in his prime and could fit in well on the Bruins' roster as they continue their retool because of it. In addition, he is known for his good leadership ability, as evidenced by him being one of the Flames' alternate captains.
Andersson has been the subject of trade speculation for quite some time now, and there certainly is a chance that he finally gets moved this summer. The star blueliner is entering the final season of his contract, and his $4.55 million cap hit is an absolute bargain for all that he provides.
Bruins Rumors: Boston Linked To Former Draft Pick
The <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/boston-bruins">Boston Bruins</a> are expected to try to improve their defensive group this off-season. It is understandable, as they are coming off a bad season and undoubtedly need more stability on their backend.
In 81 games this season with the Flames, Andersson posted 11 goals, 31 points, and 196 blocks. This was the fourth season in a row where he hit the 30-point mark, with his highest being in 2021-22 when he posted four goals and 50 points in 82 games. He also had 49 points in 79 contests with the Flames in 2022-23, so he has the potential to produce solid offense from the blueline.
Bruins GM Gives New Update On Morgan Geekie Contract Talks
Morgan Geekie is the <a href="https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/boston-bruins">Boston Bruins</a>' top pending restricted free agent (RFA) with July 1 rapidly approaching. The 26-year-old is coming off a strong 2024-25 season, as he recorded new career highs with 33 goals, 24 assists, and 57 points in 77 games. With this, getting him signed to a new contract should be one of the Bruins' biggest objectives of the summer.
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