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Boston Bruins: Recent Moves Show Blueline Taking Shape

By Andrew Thompson

Nov 12, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Bruins defenseman Torey Krug (47) drops to block a shot in front of goalie Tuukka Rask (40) during the third period against the Colorado Avalanche at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 12, 2015; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Bruins defenseman Torey Krug (47) drops to block a shot in front of goalie Tuukka Rask (40) during the third period against the Colorado Avalanche at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Boston Bruins completed two serious moves today. First, they informed seven-year veteran Dennis Seidenberg that his services were no longer required. The Bruins bought out his contract and parted ways with the 35-year old defenseman. Later that afternoon, the Black and Gold came to terms with blueliner Torey Krug.  Krug signed a four-year/$21 million dollar deal that comes with a $5.25 million dollar hit against the salary cap.

I’ve fallen in love with the city,” said Krug after the signing. “My wife loves it, I love it. I named my dog Fenway…I didn’t want to have to change my dog’s name. It’s just an amazing city. We have a beautiful home.

“There’s nothing we would like to change at this point in our lives. I think it’s a testament to the organization and all the people, being surrounded by great people. I think that’s a big part of it.”

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The moves make complete sense. Dennis Seidenberg was becoming the oft-injured invisible player. He was expected to play top-four minutes and that lead to lost games and another season out of the playoffs. Torey Krug told everyone at the start of the last season he was ready to play top-four minutes. With the exception of goals (only four last season), he delivered across the board for Boston.

With these two moves, it’s easier to see which Boston Bruins defensemen who will be playing in the 2016-17 season. Zdeno Chara will still be on the top pair. The Bruins will likely rotate several players to see who will be the right fit there. It could end up being Colin Miller, Joe Morrow, or someone else the Bruins find(or promote from Providence) between now and opening night.

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The second line is harder to call. At the moment, the Bruins would have Torey Krug paired up with Miller, Morrow, or maybe John-Michael Liles(if they can come together for a one-year deal).  If Liles wants to test free agency, then the B’s would be looking to either promote up from Providence, or attempt to use Kevan Miller and/or Adam McQuaid again (not the best option).

If the Bruins find another person to fill in that second pair slot, then the bottom pair looks like Kevan Miller and Adam McQuaid right now.

Is this the perfect defensive core? No. But the Seidenberg move shows that Sweeney is ready to wash away the ghost of Peter Chiarelli from the TD Garden. Hopefully, the Bruins can find themselves back in the playoff hunt without being shutout of the playoffs for the third straight year.

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