The Hockey News Big Show - Jeremy Swayman Contract

The Boston Bruins made a series of essential moves this off-season. They added a new first-line center in Elias Lindholm, who has been excellent early on. They also signed a big and mean left-shot defenseman in Nikita Zadorov, which was also a necessity. Right before the start of the regular season, they also worked through the tough negotiations and signed star goalie Jeremy Swayman to an eight-year contract.

Overall, the Bruins have improved their roster in multiple areas and will now look to make some real noise in the Eastern Conference this season. However, it is no secret that they need another top-six winger after losing Jake DeBrusk this off-season.

One interesting player who may be worth keeping an eye on is Calgary Flames winger Andrei Kuzmenko.

After no longer being a fit on the Vancouver Canucks last season, Kuzmenko was traded to the Flames in the deal that got Vancouver now-Bruin Elias Lindholm. However, since joining the Flames, Kuzmenko has bounced back in a big way and has shown he can be a legitimate top-six winger. In 29 games with the Flames following the trade last season, he had 14 goals and 25 points.

Kuzmenko has not slowed down this season either, as he has four assists and a plus-2 rating in just two games thus far. Furthermore, during his first NHL season in 2022-23 with the Canucks, he was excellent, posting 39 goals and 74 points in 81 games. Clearly, when Kuzmenko is on his game, he is an impactful offensive contributor.

With the Flames rebuilding, there is a real chance that Kuzmenko – a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA) – could hit the trade block at some point this season. If he does, the Bruins should seriously consider pushing for him. He could be a perfect addition for the Bruins' 2RW spot, but the Original Six club would need to get creative to make it work financially.

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