Boston Bruins shift focus to new 40-goal scorer after missing out on Jonathan Marchessault

After failing to land Jonathan Marchessault, the Boston Bruins have reportedly made Brock Boeser a key free-agent target as Don Sweeney eyes an offensive reset with $28 million in cap space.

Bruins pivot toward Boeser as offensive rebuild begins

With Jonathan Marchessault no longer in play, the Boston Bruins have quickly shifted gears.

According to the Hockey Writers, Brock Boeser has now surfaced as a top priority as the organization looks to inject life into an underwhelming offense.

Boeser, who netted 40 goals for the Vancouver Canucks this past season, checks several boxes for the Bruins: scoring ability, a strong locker-room presence, and a contract situation that makes him attainable in a busy market.

Boston’s offense unraveled in 2024–25

The Bruins’ attack was among the weakest in the NHL during the 2024–25 campaign, a season marred by inconsistency, key injuries, and a trade deadline fire sale.

Even with David Pastrnak posting solid numbers, the supporting cast fell flat.

Some of the decline was expected. After moving Brad Marchand, Charlie Coyle, and Trent Frederic at the deadline, Boston’s offense became one-dimensional and relied too heavily on top-line production.

The roster’s lack of depth was exposed quickly.

Now, with roughly $28 million in available cap space, Don Sweeney has the tools to retool aggressively, and Boeser may be at the top of his list.

Boeser brings goal-scoring pedigree and upside

At 27, Boeser offers a rare blend of experience and still-developing potential.

After an up-and-down stretch of seasons, he broke out again in 2024–25 with 40 goals, reminding teams of his quick release and dangerous presence off the rush.

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.

That’s the take from Ryan Ventura of The Hockey Writers, and it mirrors the sentiment shared by many league insiders.

Boeser’s style fits Boston’s system.

He doesn’t shy away from tight areas, he’s reliable defensively, and he could thrive alongside a playmaker like Pavel Zacha or even slot beside Pastrnak, creating a one-two punch Boston lacked all year.

Sweeney’s blueprint: efficient, targeted acquisitions

Unlike some general managers, Sweeney rarely swings for splashy, headline-grabbing signings.

His preference has always leaned toward players who fill specific roles and elevate the team structure as a whole.

Boeser fits that approach.

He’s not a flashy name, but his consistent scoring touch and high work rate would give Boston a steady, dependable presence in the top six. And unlike some pricier targets, Boeser might come at a number that leaves room for additional moves.

Vancouver hasn’t yet made its plans clear, but if Boeser hits the market, expect the Bruins to be among the first to make a serious call.

Would Boeser be the fix or just the start?

There’s no illusion that Boeser alone can fix everything.

Boston needs more than one scoring option to rebound next season.

Still, landing him would be a major step in the right direction, and a signal to the fan base that the team is serious about bouncing back quickly.

For younger players like Matthew Poitras and Fabian Lysell, Boeser’s presence could ease the pressure and give them space to develop properly.

For the locker room, it would be a message: the Bruins aren’t going through a rebuild, they’re resetting to contend.

One move won’t define the summer, but this one could set the tone.