The Boston Bruins have been eliminated from the Stanley Cup Playoffs after their loss to the Florida Panthers on Friday night. With their season over, attention shifts to the 2024 NHL Draft in late June. However, Boston aims to make some moves before the draft, focusing on trading goalie Linus Ullmark.
According to Fluto Shinzawa of The Athletic, the Bruins consider trading Ullmark a “priority.” This move would pave the way for Jeremy Swayman to become the starting goalie and provide prospect Brandon Bussi the opportunity to become the backup.
Ullmark, who has been with the Bruins for parts of three seasons, has had a successful tenure, boasting save percentages of .917, .938, and .915. He was instrumental during their historic 65-win season in 2022-23 and won the Vezina Trophy as the league’s best goalie.
Reasons for the Trade
Trading Ullmark isn’t a new idea, as he was rumored to be on the block during the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline. Some reports even suggested that Ullmark declined a trade to the Los Angeles Kings, although this wasn’t confirmed.
Shinzawa cites two main reasons for Boston’s interest in trading Ullmark. First, the Bruins need additional draft picks, as they only have three selections in the 2024 NHL Draft, all after the third round. They traded their top picks to acquire Tyler Bertuzzi, Dmitry Orlov, and Hampus Lindholm.
Second, moving Ullmark could be part of a “hockey trade” to address immediate needs. The Bruins, as contenders, need help offensively and on the left side of their defense. Trading Ullmark could help them acquire the necessary pieces.
Benefits for Ullmark
A trade could also benefit Ullmark. With the offseason bringing a salary cap increase, teams like the New Jersey Devils, Los Angeles Kings, and Colorado Avalanche might be looking for a new goalie. This market shift could allow Ullmark to secure a primary starting role elsewhere.
Currently set to become a free agent in 2025, a trade would give Ullmark a chance to be a primary starter again. If he performs well, he could either earn an extension with his new team or position himself for a lucrative contract next summer.
While Ullmark and the Bruins have had a productive partnership, their time together
Bruins Prioritize Trading Goalie Linus Ullmark Ahead of NHL Draft
The Boston Bruins have been eliminated from the Stanley Cup Playoffs after their loss to the Florida Panthers on Friday night. With their season over, attention shifts to the 2024 NHL Draft in late June. However, Boston aims to make some moves before the draft, focusing on trading goalie Linus Ullmark.
According to Fluto Shinzawa of The Athletic, the Bruins consider trading Ullmark a “priority.” This move would pave the way for Jeremy Swayman to become the starting goalie and provide prospect Brandon Bussi the opportunity to become the backup.
Ullmark, who has been with the Bruins for parts of three seasons, has had a successful tenure, boasting save percentages of .917, .938, and .915. He was instrumental during their historic 65-win season in 2022-23 and won the Vezina Trophy as the league’s best goalie.
Reasons for the Trade
Trading Ullmark isn’t a new idea, as he was rumored to be on the block during the 2024 NHL Trade Deadline. Some reports even suggested that Ullmark declined a trade to the Los Angeles Kings, although this wasn’t confirmed.
Shinzawa cites two main reasons for Boston’s interest in trading Ullmark. First, the Bruins need additional draft picks, as they only have three selections in the 2024 NHL Draft, all after the third round. They traded their top picks to acquire Tyler Bertuzzi, Dmitry Orlov, and Hampus Lindholm.
Second, moving Ullmark could be part of a “hockey trade” to address immediate needs. The Bruins, as contenders, need help offensively and on the left side of their defense. Trading Ullmark could help them acquire the necessary pieces.
Benefits for Ullmark
A trade could also benefit Ullmark. With the offseason bringing a salary cap increase, teams like the New Jersey Devils, Los Angeles Kings, and Colorado Avalanche might be looking for a new goalie. This market shift could allow Ullmark to secure a primary starting role elsewhere.
Currently set to become a free agent in 2025, a trade would give Ullmark a chance to be a primary starter again. If he performs well, he could either earn an extension with his new team or position himself for a lucrative contract next summer.
While Ullmark and the Bruins have had a productive partnership, their time together seems to be nearing its end. Hockey fans should keep a close eye on this developing situation as the NHL Draft approaches.
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