The Boston Bruins must pursue either Mitch Marner or/and Brock Boeser in free agency, as Don Sweeney eyes an offensive overhaul with over $28 million in cap space.
Last season, the Boston Bruins found themselves stuck near the bottom in just about every offensive category that matters.
Whether it was scoring at even strength or generating chances on the power play, the numbers painted a grim picture.
Injuries and midseason trades played a role, sure. But excuses can only go so far. This was a team that lacked scoring depth, looked disjointed for stretches, and didn’t come close to meeting its standard.
Now, Bruins general manager Don Sweeney is reportedly preparing to take a big swing.
With around $28 million in cap space freed up by deadline decisions and expiring contracts, Boston is expected to be active, and aggressive, in free agency.
Two names have surfaced as primary targets: Mitch Marner and Brock Boeser.
If there’s one player available this offseason who could change the entire look of Boston’s offense, it’s Mitch Marner.
While the Maple Leafs haven’t officially made him available, league buzz suggests that the Bruins are monitoring the situation closely.
If the Bruins choose to sign him, he would immediately become the most dynamic offensive teammate David Pastrnak has had in his career.
While Pastrnak and Geekie both had great seasons, the team was clearly missing the star power on the offensive end to remain competitive.
Signing the Maple Leafs’ winger would go a long way to addressing that.
Marner’s ability to control pace, make plays in tight spaces, and drive a top line would instantly change the dynamics in Boston.
There’s no denying Marner would come at a cost.
His contract is substantial, and the Bruins would need to move carefully if a deal materialized. Still, with the kind of cap space they’re carrying into the summer, Boston has the tools to make it happen.
While Marner carries headline value, Brock Boeser may be the smarter fit on paper.
The Vancouver winger is coming off a strong year in which he netted 40 goals and proved he could be a consistent scoring threat when healthy.
That kind of output would provide an instant upgrade to Boston’s second line, or even allow for more balance in the top six.
Brock Boeser would be a top-six winger that the Bruins could very well target this offseason, who would immediately inject additional life into their offense.
Again, Ventura hits the mark.
Boeser doesn’t require the same financial gymnastics as Marner, and he’s still a legitimate top-six forward.
His presence would take pressure off Pastrnak while giving Boston the ability to roll two dangerous scoring lines.
If Boston wants to stay competitive in a tightening Atlantic Division, adding that kind of depth is more necessity than luxury.
Sweeney’s recent extension didn’t come without scrutiny. The Bruins aren’t rebuilding, but they aren’t quite contenders either.
That awkward middle ground demands bold decisions, and this offseason could be his biggest test yet.
Fans know what this team looks like when it’s firing on all cylinders.
They also know when it’s stuck. Last season? It was stuck.
Now the organization has financial flexibility, a clear need for offensive upgrades, and two talented wingers potentially within reach. Whether they go all-in for Marner, make a more measured play for Boeser, or find a way to grab both—this is the moment.
Should the Bruins take a big swing on Marner, or focus on the steadier option in Boeser?
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