How the Bruins can fit Hanifin in money-wise.
This could be the opportunity for the Bruins to move on from left wing Jake DeBrusk but also add to their defense. Hanifin carries a $4.95 million cap hit for the next three years on his six-year, $29.7 contract. The good news? He would be under contract for the remaining championship window for the Bruins with their current core group.
DeBrusk and his $3.675 million cap hit on the final year of his contract going to the Flames could give him a new start closer to home, as he is from Edmonton, Alberta. There is also another way for the Bruins to clear cap room and a roster spot as part of the deal.
Chris Wagner, a fourth-line player that struggled this season could also be part of the deal headed to Calgary. Let’s face it, the Bruins need to rebuild their bottom-six and losing in free agency Sean Kuraly and Wagner would not be big losses and could easily be replaced.
There is no doubt the general manager Don Sweeney and the front office would like to add to the blueline for coach Bruce Cassidy ahead of next season. Whether it’s through a trade for free agency, there is bound to change, but one call to the Flames could help add to the defense for next year and two more following that.