The Boston Bruins’ front office continues its aggressive retooling strategy, and forward Pavel Zacha may be the next veteran on the move. The 28-year-old, under contract through the 2026–27 season with a $4.75 million cap hit, has reportedly been made available on the trade market if the right offer arises.
Zacha’s potential departure comes amid a series of bold decisions by Boston, which has already parted ways with key players including Brad Marchand, Charlie Coyle, and Brandon Carlo this offseason. Now, general manager Don Sweeney appears prepared to go even further in reshaping the team’s core.
NHL insider Frank Seravalli reported that the Bruins would “have to consider” dealing Zacha, especially for draft picks or young prospects that fit their long-term vision.
What makes Pavel Zacha a valuable trade asset?
While Zacha’s production dipped slightly last season—posting 47 points in 82 games—he remains a reliable top-six forward. In the two prior campaigns, he delivered 59 and 57 points, respectively. His ability to complement stars like David Pastrnak, with whom he shares strong chemistry, has made him a key piece in Boston’s lineup.
But that chemistry also complicates any trade. Moving Zacha could have ripple effects inside the locker room, particularly with Pastrnak, the Bruins’ cornerstone player. Nonetheless, the organization appears willing to make tough decisions in service of a larger rebuild.
Who wants Zacha?
Two potential landing spots reportedly have emerged: the Utah Mammoth and the Chicago Blackhawks. Both teams are in transition and looking to acquire veteran talent with playoff experience. Utah, in particular, is pushing to construct a postseason-ready roster and could absorb Zacha’s full contract without salary retention.
Trade clause and timing could accelerate deal
Zacha’s contract includes a modified no-trade clause, which recently shifted from a 10-team to an 8-team restriction as of July 1. This slight adjustment could be pivotal if Utah or Chicago are not on the list of blocked destinations.
According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, Boston had already tested the market on Zacha during the season and remains open to revisiting those discussions. “There is belief out there that Boston is looking, again, at moving him,” Pagnotta wrote.
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If Boston does pull the trigger, it would further highlight the franchise’s commitment to a bold reset. Zacha, once seen as a stable fixture in the team’s forward group, now stands as a symbol of Boston’s willingness to move forward—no matter how deep the cuts may go.