Joe Morrow – Defenseman – 24 Years Old – $800,000 Cap Hit
Joe Morrow‘s time in Boston could be done at the 2017 trade deadline. While he possesses the potential to be a full-time NHL player, something has kept him out of a full-time role at this point in his career. Whether it’s inconsistency or simply not separating himself enough from every other defender on the roster, Morrow has seen most of his time in the press box or in the AHL since being drafted.
On a one-year deal with an $800,000 cap hit, the 24-year-old might find himself traded for the third time in his young career as the Bruins look ready to move forward with their roster. When looking a the current team, Morrow could slot in alongside Colin Miller on the Bruins bottom pairing, spelling Kevan Miller when needed. The issue, however, is Morrow may be able to get the Bruins some return – no matter how small, and the team could simply make a call-up from Providence to replace him.
Related Story: Joe Morrow Sent to Providence
If the Bruins are looking for a puck-moving, left-shot defenseman, they could give Rob O’Gara another chance on the team. Additionally, Matt Grzelcyk is also an option. If the team decides to hold onto Liles, then the need for Morrow is diminished even further.
Tyler Seguin Trade Lingering
For many, getting little for Morrow may seem like a waste – especially given the fact that he was part of the infamous Tyler Seguin trade. Unfortunately, the Bruins have lost two pieces in the Seguin deal for nothing already with Eriksson signing in Vancouver last offseason and Matt Fraser being picked up on waivers by the Oilers in 2014. Reilly Smith was traded along with the Marc Savard contract for Jimmy Hayes, and that leaves Morrow as the lone remaining piece.
If the Bruins can get something for Morrow at this point, rather than holding him in the press box night in and night out, they would be wise to do so. Morrow could pan out to be a solid defenseman – but for the Bruins, his time may have come and gone already. With just 65 games played in Boston over the last three seasons and nine points to show for it, Morrow just doesn’t look like he’s part of the team’s plans.