Bruins Provide Big Update on Key Names Ahead of NHL Draft & Free Agency

The Boston Bruins have offered updates on various players and trade discussions as the NHL Draft and free agency approach. The team awaits news on the futures of Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci, while also addressing speculation surrounding Tyler Bertuzzi’s contract extension and the potential signing of Dmitry Orlov.

Related: Bruins Clear Space, Blackhawks Help Bedard w/ Taylor Hall and Nick Foligno Trade

Head coach Jim Montgomery expressed his desire to “run it back” but the realities of the NHL salary cap, the Bruins bonus overages for Bergeron and Krejci and the sheer interest that will exist for some of the key pending UFAs, it would be hard to envision a scenario where the Bruins look at all like the team that won the Presidents Trophy last season. After already trading Taylor Hall and Nick Foligno, the Bruins continue to undergo significant changes following their disappointing early exit from the playoffs.

GM Don Sweeney said what Bergeron and Krejci ultimately decide won’t impact how they operate now and through free agency. They will get them in if they want to return.

— Dan Rosen (@drosennhl) June 27, 2023

According to Boston Bruins GM Don Sweeney, defenseman Dmitry Orlov is unlikely to be re-signed. Orlov, considered one of the best players available in the free agent market, remains a top-pairing defenseman but is seeking a long-term contract. The Bruins would like to retain his services, but the fact he’s going to get high offers from other teams makes it hard to see a situation where the Bruins are the frontrunners here.

Meanwhile, President Cam Neely revealed that the Bruins are operating under the assumption that both Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci may not return. However, the team remains hopeful and maintains open communication with the players. General Manager Don Sweeney emphasized that their decisions will not impact the team’s operations or approach to free agency, and the Bruins are ready to welcome them back if they choose to return. Sweeney also hinted that Garnet Hathaway, Tomas Nosek, and Tyler Bertuzzi may not return either.

As the NHL Draft and free agency near, the Bruins find themselves in a period of transition, with significant roster changes on the horizon. Fans and observers eagerly await further developments and moves by the team as they seek to reshape their lineup for the upcoming season.

Next: Treliving Confirms Sheldon Keefe Will Return as Maple Leafs Head Coach