Boston's Cam Neely Could Be Next On The Hot Seat Boston Bruins [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/boston-bruins/] defenseman Brandon Carlo has found himself in the rumor mill [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/boston-bruins/latest-news/report-3-big-bruins-generating-serious-trade-interest] as we continue to get closer to the 2025 NHL trade deadline. On ABC during the Bruins' latest matchup against the Vegas Golden Knights, Emily Kaplan reported that the right-shot defenseman has generated trade interest [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/boston-bruins/latest-news/report-3-big-bruins-generating-serious-trade-interest], as relayed by WEEI's Scott McLaughlin [https://x.com/smclaughlin9/status/1888366691609887077]. It is understandable that Carlo has caught the eyes of some teams. He is a 6-foot-5 right-shot defenseman who plays top-four minutes and kills penalties. He also has plenty of playoff experience, so he would be a great addition for a contender. However, any trade centering around Carlo would undoubtedly come with risk for the Bruins. While the 28-year-old blueliner has had a shaky season, he has been a crucial part of their defense for several years. Trading him would also create a large hole in Boston's top four, which wouldn't be particularly easy to fix. This is especially so when noting that he is Boston's top stay-at-home defenseman. Brandon Carlo [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjEwNzA4MzY2NjI2OTI0MzY5/usatsi_24574705.jpg] Brandon Carlo Teams value dependable right-shot defensemen with size, and Carlo is just that when playing at his best. He is also signed at a reasonable $4.1 million cap hit until the completion of the 2026-27 season. Finding a potential top-four, right-shot defenseman replacement for Carlo in free agency would likely be more expensive. In 56 games this season, Carlo has one goal, nine points, 56 hits, 108 blocks, and a plus-3 rating. This is after he had four goals, 14 points, and a plus-23 rating in 76 games last season with the Original Six club.
