The Boston Bruins were one of many teams interested in Conor Garland, but he is officially off the board. The Vancouver Canucks have traded Garland to the Columbus Blue Jackets for a 2026 third-round pick and a 2026 second-round pick. The Bruins had been heavily connected to Garland leading up to deadline day, but the Blue Jackets have instead won the sweepstakes. It is tough news for the Bruins, as Garland would have been a nice addition to their middle six. However, with this news, the Bruins now must explore their options elsewhere. The Blue Jackets are also just one point behind the Bruins for the final wild card spot in the Eastern Conference standings. Now, with this move, Columbus has strengthened its forward group by adding Garland. The Bruins have until 3 p.m. ET on Friday to upgrade their forward group if they wish to. It will be interesting to see if they make any moves from here, but the idea of Garland becoming a Bruin this season can now be forgotten.
