Bruins defenseman expected to walk in Free Agency as top replacement target surfaces

Bruins defenseman Henri Jokiharju could leave during NHL free agency, and Columbus Blue Jackets blueliner Dante Fabbro may emerge as a top target if Boston lets him walk.

Jokiharju’s time in Boston might be short-lived

Henri Jokiharju’s arrival in Boston came quietly, but his impact didn’t go unnoticed.

After being acquired in a last-minute move at the trade deadline, the Finnish defenseman gave the Bruins the type of reliable, steady play they needed heading into the postseason push.

Still, with free agency approaching, there’s growing uncertainty around whether he’ll return.

There was talk after the season came to an end that Jokiharju would be open to staying in Boston

While those conversations reportedly happened, nothing appears imminent.

Don Sweeney hasn’t tipped his hand, and with salary cap decisions looming, there’s a real possibility Jokiharju heads elsewhere this summer.

If Jokiharju leaves, Boston may pivot to Dante Fabbro

According to a recent piece by The Hockey News, one potential replacement already stands out, Dante Fabbro, who’s coming off a strong season with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Fabbro’s career took a sharp turn when he was claimed off waivers from Nashville.

In Columbus, he stepped into a top-pairing role and thrived, finishing with 9 goals, 26 points, and a +23 rating in just 62 games.

His mix of defensive stability and offensive upside would give the Bruins a player who can log major minutes without sacrificing structure—something that fits perfectly with their system.

Bruins need to shore up their back end, fast

With Boston expected to remain in win-now mode, every roster spot counts.

Letting Jokiharju walk would create a noticeable gap on the right side, and someone like Fabbro, young, affordable, and productive, checks a lot of boxes.

He’s also shown he can adapt quickly, something Boston clearly values in its defensive corps.

If Fabbro hits the open market, he’ll draw plenty of attention. But Boston offers a playoff-caliber roster, organizational stability, and a system that suits his strengths.

And if Sweeney chooses not to re-sign Jokiharju, don’t be surprised if the Bruins are one of the first teams to reach out.