NHL News: Bruins reportedly considering trade of star top-six forward ahead of 2025-26 season

The Boston Bruins are entering the 2025-26 NHL campaign under different circumstances. For the first time in recent memory, the franchise is showing signs of a transitional phase, moving on from its longtime core. With captain Brad Marchand no longer in the fold, the Bruins appear committed to reshaping the roster—and that includes making decisions on players who once seemed part of the plan.

Among those reportedly available on the trade market is Pavel Zacha, the versatile forward who joined the Bruins from the New Jersey Devils just two seasons ago. His name is surfacing again in speculation as Boston evaluates how best to align its roster with future ambitions.

“The Bruins explored the trade market on Zacha during the season, and there is belief out there that Boston is looking, again, at moving him,” reported The Fourth Period’s David Pagnotta. “His 10-team no-trade list turned into an eight-team list July 1, so he does have some say in where he ends up, if dealt. He has two years remaining on his contract.”

Boston’s trade strategy and roster realignment

Zacha, 27, was acquired in 2022 in exchange for Erik Haula and quickly made an impression, scoring 21 goals in each of his first two years with the Bruins. However, his production dipped this past season, tallying just 14 goals despite maintaining a regular role in the top six.

Pavel Zacha #18 of the Boston Bruins looks on during the first period against the Buffalo Sabres at TD Garden on December 21, 2024 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

With a contract that carries two more years, Zacha represents a valuable asset for a team looking to bolster its prospect depth or acquire younger talent more in sync with its evolving core. One of those emerging cornerstones is seventh overall pick James Hagens, whose timeline differs from veteran contributors like Zacha.

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Boston’s willingness to part ways with players like Zacha suggests a shift toward longer-term planning—one where flexibility and cap space could be prioritized over short-term veteran consistency.

Potential landing spots for Zacha

Should the Bruins move forward with trading Zacha, several teams may present a fit. The Los Angeles Kings, in particular, are viewed as a potential destination. After a relatively quiet offseason, LA could benefit from a proven 20-goal forward, especially in their push to advance past rivals like the Edmonton Oilers.

Meanwhile, the Nashville Predators may be another possible suitor. The idea of reuniting Zacha with Haula could provide additional forward depth, but their front office may be hesitant to part with prospects given their own development arc.

As the 2025-26 season approaches, all eyes will be on Boston’s front office to see if Zacha is indeed moved—and if so, what return signals the next phase of the Bruins’ rebuild.