Bruins Could Be Open to Nick Foligno, Mike Reilly Trades

Mike Stephens of The Hockey News suggested the Boston Bruins could actively try to move forwards Nick Foligno and defenseman Mike Reilly who each cleared waivers on Monday. With their salaries higher than teams could afford, neither player was claimed and each is still with the Bruins, but the team is looking at options to potentially move one or both of the players if a trade makes sense.

Reilly being back with the organization doesn’t change the fact he’s making $3 million on the team’s salary cap, nor that the Bruins have five NHL-caliber left-shot defenders on their roster. He’s a luxury the team doesn’t need and he was waived because he was the odd man out. But, while the Bruins might not be the ideal fit, another team could find him useful. He’s a mobile defender who can join the rush and he’s under team control for two more seasons. His contract situation might deter teams from trading for him now, but prior to the NHL Trade Deadline, he could be a viable option for contenders. Stephens suggests a team like the Chicago Blackhawks might be a good fit.

Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Flyers have been linked to Nick Foligno. He’s got a link to new head coach John Tortorella and the Flyers are looking for strong locker-room leadership. Stephens writes, “Foligno doesn’t have a ton of value left these days – especially when accounting for his $3.8 million cap hit – as injuries and the inevitable progression of Father Time have sapped him of his strength.”

There’s a cost associated with acquiring Foligno (cap related), but the Flyers could move him up and down between the NHL and AHL as much as they want for the next 30 days. If he plays well, he’s not a bad add. If he doesn’t they can make another decision at that time.

Next: Top 4 Trade Destinations For Blackhawks’ Patrick Kane