Players the Bruins should not trade: Jake DeBrusk (Forward), Jeremy Swayman (Goaltender), Brandon Carlo (Defenseman)
Brandon Carlo (Defenseman)
Under no circumstances should Brandon Carlo be even remotely discussed in trade talk, that is unless it’s April Fool’s Day. Even then, it’s not a funny joke to potentially make your fan base of 100 years think that you’re getting rid of by far your best penalty killer just to say “just kidding!!”
The NESN team of Jack Edwards, and Andy Brickley, said it best on the broadcast when they said “on the penalty kill, as soon as Carlo touches it, it’s an instant clear.” And it’s true, the penalty kill is infinitely better when Carlo is on the ice.
In 75 games, in 2022-23, Carlo didn’t blow you away with his numbers, but his plus-minus rating is really what should set the tone for what type of player he is moving forward: +44. That’s the kind of guy you anchor your team around, especially your defensive core.
Jeremy Swayman (Goaltender)
Many people thought that if the Bruins were not able to sign Jeremy Swayman to a team-friendly deal, they should swap him with Philadelphia Flyers goaltender Carter Hart.
Swayman, however, should under no circumstances be moved for any other goalie, let alone Hart. Swayman is looked at as the future of goaltending in Boston for one thing, but another thing to look at is just how well he works with all of the coaching staff, and even with the one in front of him: Linus Ullmark.
Because of their duo, the Bruins appear to very well set up at the position moving forward. The only reason I see that Boston should even remotely think to move Swayman would be in the form of an excellent deal that would get them a better back-up, and according to TheHockeyWriters.com, you can’t find one.
Jake DeBrusk (Forward)
Despite requesting a trade early on last season, the Bruins should not entertain any offers on Jake DeBrusk anytime soon unless they check off every single box of desires for the team. Is it likely to find that? No, not at all.
DeBrusk is looking to have another breakout season after setting career-highs last season. And with projected increases in his puck touches this season, it would be surprising to see him in another uniform.
DeBrusk seems to be content staying in Boston now, and will relish in his new role as a potential top-six winger moving forward. Short of an actual no-trade clause in his contract, don’t be surprised if the Bruins don’t budge on anything DeBrusk-related.