Jan 13, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Bruins left wing Milan Lucic (17) is congratulated by center David Krejci (46) and right wing David Pastrnak (88) after scoring a goal during the second period against the Tampa Bay Lightning at TD Banknorth Garden. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
The trade deadline – March 2nd – is approaching fast and the rumor mills are filled with potential trade talks for the Bruins. Although we have heard everything from Milan Lucic to Zdeno Chara being on their way out, there really doesn’t seem to be any truth regarding big names being on the chopping block. However, after having a productive and positive January, the B’s have fallen into a rut and are quickly putting their post-season spot in danger.
At this point, the best option for turning their game around is making a big change in the roster that could provide some spark, energy and boost to their lackluster play.
First Line Right Winger
After losing Jerome Iginla this past offseason, the Bruins have struggled to find someone to fit the much-needed first line right winner spot. Although David Pastrnak has been a great addition to the team – production and energy-wise – at such a young age the Bruins organization does not want to have to rely on him for making the key plays. This is quite possibly the biggest reason why most of the trade talk has focused on potential right wingers that can fill the void that Iginla left.
“I think we’re seeing things from Reilly that kind of gives you the impression that right now he’s not confident or second guessing, or he’s just not feeling it. So he’s got to…again, we can only do so much. He’s got to find his game.” Julien on Smith”
The most common name being tossed around is Chris Stewart as a trade target for the Bruins. Although he has shown some potential in past seasons, having tallied only 22 points so far this season leaves most wondering if this addition will be enough to make a big difference. If the trade is made, it will likely come at the cost of a second round pick and possibly a prospect from the B’s. They won’t have to lose any of their key players, but being tight on the salary cap could cause some issues. Other names being thrown around are Cam Atkinson, Michael Ryder, Antoine Vermette and Zack Kassian.
The Bruins have tried to mix up their lines so that the first line can be productive and Reilly Smith is one of the players that has seen this spot for many games. Unfortunately, he has barely played well enough to hold his spot on the second line let alone the first. In fact, Claude Julien and other Bruins players have noticed a few negative patterns in Smith’s play which is why he is not the best option for taking this spot – and why he has been bumped to the fourth line multiple times. For a player that is fighting for a new contract this upcoming offseason, he sure isn’t making his case by his lack of performance.
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