Boston Bruins
· 2026-07-13
Boston Bruins have 10 NHL-capable defensemen after summer signings and trades, creating a logjam on the blue line just before the 2026-27 season. With Charlie McAvoy sidelined for the first six games, the team has time to evaluate depth before making a potential move.
The Bruins added Connor Clifton on a new deal and acquired Will Borgen in a trade, both right-shot defenders, to fix a positional need. They also re-signed Jordan Harris and Jonathan Aspirot, while bringing in Henri Jokiharju via deadline deal. That’s seven defensemen already under contract, plus McAvoy, Hampus Lindholm, Nikita Zadorov, and prospect Frederic Brunet.
With McAvoy out for the season’s first six games, the Bruins are testing their depth early. But once he returns, the blue line becomes overcrowded. GM Don Sweeney admitted he’s still open to trades, citing conversations with other teams and the possibility of injuries. The team’s 45-27 record and 5th-place standing in the East give them flexibility to shop excess talent.
Frederic Brunet, who scored 36 points in 65 AHL games last season, is pushing for an NHL call-up. Mason Lohrei, despite past trade rumors, got a vote of confidence from Sweeney. But with 10 defensemen vying for six spots, someone will likely be moved before opening night. The Bruins aren’t rushing, but the clock is ticking.
Will Borgen and Connor Clifton are both new additions, but their contracts are short-term. Jokiharju’s $3M cap hit and inconsistent play make him a candidate. Lohrei, with one year left, could be the most tradeable asset. Sweeney hasn’t named names, but the math is clear: too many bodies, not enough ice time.
The Bruins’ defensive depth is a luxury — and a problem. They’re not rebuilding. They’re winning. And in a 45-27 team on a W2 streak, every roster spot must earn its place.