Boston Bruins: 3 Trade Options to Stay Away From

Jack Eichel

There is plenty of noise surrounding Jack Eichel and it seems like it is almost a given that the Buffalo Sabres center that was the second pick of the 2015 draft is on the move before the draft.

First and foremost, acquiring Eichel is bringing on a massive contract. The former Boston University standout just finished his third year of an eight-year, $80 million contract that carries an annual cap hit of $10 million. Unlike the trade Don Sweeney pulled off in April to acquire Taylor Hall from Buffalo, there’s no chance that the Sabres pick up any of Eichel’s remaining contract.

In return, Buffalo would most likely require a haul back in return from whoever gets Eichel. What could that haul include? Well, most likely, an NHL-ready player now or possibly two, as well as some prospects and even some picks. Eichel has 139 goals and 216 assist in six seasons, with just two goals this past season with 16 assists in 21 games.

Eichel is a good player, but is he worth bringing on that contract and giving up young assets and picks? No. What also has to be considered is his injury history. Unfortunately, he can’t seem to stay healthy and that should be a deal-breaker for the Bruins.