As per a report by Jimmy Murphy of Boston Hockey Now , the Boston Bruins are shopping forward Craig Smith and recently came close to trading him. Murphy cites a source who was described as an “NHL source with direct knowledge of the situation” and notes that teams have shown interest in Smith and one team, in particular, seems keenly set on trying to add him. Trade talks have been ongoing and while it appears there’s no deal in place, one was almost finalized.
The Bruins have been open to trading Smith all summer and have held trade talks with at least one team recently. Murphy writes, “I can confirm an actual trade offer was made but after trying to find common ground for a while, the talks were put on hold. This team really wanted Smith and wanted this to happen.” It was not reported which team it was or if the two sides will get back together and reengage in talks after reportedly putting them on hold.
The setback seems to be the return and as the Bruins want a decent haul for the forward but are also looking to clear cap space. It’s the same reason the Bruins are shopping forward Nick Foligno. The club is $2.2 million over the salary cap and can’t take on additional money. Any deal would need to include a minimum salary coming back.
Smith tallied 16 goals and 20 assists for 36 points in 74 games last year. He carries a $3.1 million cap hit against the team. Smith will become an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season. The Bruins recently signed Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci which put them over the cap. They are also looking to lock in David Pastrnak to a long-term contract extension.
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