Way-too-early 2024-25 Bruins roster projection after NHL free agency originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston
The Boston Bruins were a very busy team early in the NHL offseason, making moves in both the free agent and trade markets to improve their roster heading into the 2024-25 campaign.
The elite goalie duo of Jeremy Swayman and Linus Ullmark is no more after the Swedish netminder was traded to the Ottawa Senators a few days before the 2024 NHL Draft in June. Free agency saw veterans such as Danton Heinen, Matt Grzelcyk, Derek Forbort, Kevin Shattenkirk, James van Riemsdyk and Jake DeBrusk all leave the franchise.
The Bruins did make some splashy additions with their salary cap space. They signed top-six center Elias Lindholm (seven years, $54.25 million) and veteran defenseman Nikita Zadorov (six years, $30 million) on Day 1 of free agency.
The B’s integrated a couple young prospects into their NHL roster last season, most notably centers Matt Poitras and John Beecher, as well as defenseman Mason Lohrei. We could see a similar scenario unfold early next season, especially up front, where multiple position battles are expected to take place.
Here’s a look at our way-too-early Bruins lineup projection now that free agency has slowed significantly and the normally slow (at least in hockey terms) month of August approaches.
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The most interesting spot is second-line right wing alongside Brad Marchand and Charlie Coyle. Jake DeBrusk’s departure in free agency has created a hole in the top-six on the wing. DeBrusk was very inconsistent, but he did average 23.7 goals scored over the last three years. It’s not easy to replace that kind of production.
The Bruins had cap space but chose to spend it on a top-six center in Elias Lindholm. It was the right decision because two-way centers are more valuable and the B’s needed an upgrade at that position, but now they’re lacking goal scoring on the wings.
This situation should create some intense internal competition in training camp and the preseason. Fabian Lysell is a right wing and has the kind of shot, playmaking ability and speed that would work well in a top-six role. After two full seasons in the AHL, it’s time for the 2021 first-round pick to take that next step and become a regular NHL player.