The Boston Bruins need more offense, and it may take some bold moves to get it.
With the NHL’s free agency window opening July 1, the Bruins are positioned to pursue top-six scoring help through trades, offer sheets, or a targeted signing. Armed with the No. 7 overall pick, two second-rounders this year, and a pair of first-round selections in 2026 and 2027, general manager Don Sweeney has the tools to reshape the roster.
Two names drawing early buzz: Jason Robertson and Martin Necas. Robertson — a 40-goal scorer with one year left at a $7.75 million cap hit — could be moved as Dallas manages its salary cap. Necas, set to earn $6.5 million next season, could also become available if Colorado looks to free up space.
The team is expected to retain its top-10 pick, but the rest of the Bruins’ draft capital may be in play, according to a report by The Boston Herald’s Steve Conroy. That could mean dealing for a proven scorer or making an offer sheet bid on a restricted free agent.
Cap flexibility exists but will shrink fast. Boston currently has $26.7 million available, though new deals for Mason Lohrei and Morgan Geekie could take up close to $9 million. There are still decisions to make on several RFAs and depth players, leaving likely enough space for one major signing and perhaps a secondary add.
Story continues below advertisement
Free agents like Mitch Marner are projected to land deals in the $13 million range, making a Boston fit improbable. More attainable options include Nikolaj Ehlers or Brock Boeser, but both are likely to be overpaid once the market opens.
If the Bruins are serious about adding scoring, the move may need to come before free agency — when the cost is clearer, the competition thinner, and the options more manageable.