Bruins 'hope' to sign Taylor Hall to new contract

The Boston Bruins traded with the Buffalo Sabres for forward Taylor Hall back on April 12 to acquire a rental ahead of the playoffs who could become a long-term addition. 

According to Amalie Benjamin of the NHL's website, Bruins president Cam Neely told reporters on Wednesday that Hall could remain with Boston past the upcoming postseason tournament even though he's set to become an unrestricted free agent.

"As far as Taylor goes, we're going to continue to see how things go with the playoffs here," Neely said. "I think we'd like to try and get something done, but that remains to be seen. But that's our hope." 

Following Tuesday's loss to the Washington Capitals, Hall explained that he hopes "there's more to come" with the Bruins and that the past month has "probably been some of the most enjoyable hockey I've played in my career." 

The Bruins and Capitals begin their first-round playoff series on Saturday evening. 

Thus far, the April trade has benefited both Boston and Hall, as the 29-year-old has recorded eight goals and six assists across 16 games with the Bruins. However, Boston is likely to be linked with disgruntled Buffalo Sabres captain and center Jack Eichel, Hall's former Buffalo teammate, if Eichel attempts to force a trade this offseason.