The Bruins should trade for Conor Garland this summer
Around the trade deadline, Conor Garland was a popular name linked in rumors. There was a lot of hope that the Boston Bruins would be aggressive and make a move for him. The interest in him made a lot of sense, as he grew up in Massachusetts and is a very gifted player. However, a deal would not occur, and he would end up finishing the season with the Coyotes.
Now with their season over, Garland is once again in the rumor mill. The Coyotes and Garland have not made any progress in extension talks, which is quite concerning for Arizona. If they continue having that much difficulty in working out a new contract, it will likely lead to Garland finally being moved.
The Bruins absolutely should be calling the Coyotes about Garland’s availability. Besides the fact that he is a hometown kid, they need help with their offensive group. They certainly cannot go into next season with Jake DeBrusk at third-line right wing, as he has trouble on his off-wing.
Garland would be the perfect middle-six right-winger for the Bruins to add.
Garland would be a fantastic replacement to help fix this ongoing issue. In fact, with DeBrusk being the subject of trade rumors himself, he could be the starting piece that goes back to Arizona. The Bruins would need to give away more with him though, as DeBrusk struggled immensely this season.
If the Bruins acquire Garland, he would fit on either the second or third line. He and Craig Smith could alternate between lines. This season was a very strong one for Garland, as he registered 12 goals and 39 points in just 49 games. That type of offense would be greatly appreciated in the middle-six, as it would truly help the Bruins be more than just a one-line team.
From a financial standpoint, the Bruins also have the potential to make it work with his new deal. They do need to figure out which of their UFAs they will hand extensions to, but ultimately, they should have a lot to build around.
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Bringing in a player like Garland could be the jolt this team needs to find greater success. Garland’s strong offensive ability and young age make him a prime candidate for the Bruins. This would especially work if they are able to bring back both Taylor Hall and David Krejci next season. Their offense would be nothing short of spectacular if so.