Rookie Center Named Bruins' Player Most Likely to be Traded
Could the Bruins part ways with one of their top rookie forwards?
At the All-Star Break, the Boston Bruins are at the top of the NHL standings. This is a big accomplishment, especially when noting that they lost Patrice Bergeron, David Krejci, and several other key players during the offseason.
Due to the Bruins' fantastic 2023-24 season, they will look to add to their roster before the deadline passes. However, they also have limited draft picks to work with, so they may be forced to trade away potential roster players or notable prospects to bring in upgrades.
Because of this, in a recent article for The Athletic, Fluto Shinzawa listed Johnny Beecher as the most likely Bruin to be dealt before the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline passes.
In his section of the piece, Shinzawa lists the Bruins' lack of draft picks and likely refusal to move top prospects Fabian Lysell and Mason Lohrei as reasons why Beecher could be made expendable. He also noted that Beecher could interest some clubs if they "could see the 22-year-old as having a higher offensive ceiling."
Beecher showed solid promise as the team's fourth-line center before his recent demotion to the AHL. In 39 games played with Boston this season, he has five goals, two assists, and 60 hits. While there is still work to be done with his game, he has the tools to become a solid two-way center due to his defensive IQ, size, and grit.
It will be interesting to see what the Bruins decide to do with Beecher. There would certainly be some risk in moving him, as he is still quite young and has plenty of time to improve his all-around game. Yet, perhaps a move could be there if it means getting immediate help for the playoffs.
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