During the offseason, there was some hope that Brad Marchand might return to the Boston Bruins, but the franchise showed it has different plans. Led by star David Pastrnak, head coach Marco Sturm’s squad is looking to make a strong push heading into the 2025–26 NHL season.
The Bruins have already made moves by re-signing internal free agents such as Michael Eyssimont for $1.5 million, Mason Lohrei at $3.2 million AAV, and goaltender Michael DiPietro for $812k per year. While this slightly reduced their available cap space, this is not a time to settle but rather to raise the stakes in their mission to replace Marchand’s impact.
In recent hours, a report from an NHL insider indicates that the Bruins are ready to make a big splash this offseason. They have several options, along with a clear need to improve the roster after a disappointing past campaign.
Bruins ready to break the market
NHL insider Elliotte Friedman revealed that the Bruins are lurking. “Boston’s going to have some cap flexibility; some of these guys who are supposed to be free agents next year, whether they get them or not… they want to take a shot at some of these guys,” he said on the 32 Thoughts Podcast.
Boston will have some cap space, giving them the ability to sign players in free agency or make trades. They are reportedly targeting some future free agents for next year. Along these lines, rumors are growing about potential interest in Edmonton Oilers superstar Connor McDavid.
The Bruins’ financial situation
After wrapping up the 2024–25 season, the Bruins had approximately $26 million in cap space thanks to roster adjustments and an increase in the salary cap, which will reach $95.5 million for 2025–26, with projections suggesting it could continue to rise.