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Bruins' Star Center Linked to Vancouver Canucks in Trade Rumors, per NHL Analyst
Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images

The Bruins' star centerman, Pavel Zacha, has been linked to the Vancouver Canucks in trade rumors, according to NHL analyst Rob Couch of 'NHL Trade Rumors'.

Boston does not have to rebuild, but they have to be retooled. As they still boast superstar talent in their most important spots, they do not have sufficient depth on the roster.

Pavel Zacha, who played over 19 minutes per game last season and scored 14 goals with 47 points, is now an elite player on the team.

Boston's defense and stable goaltending with Jeremy Swayman can hold them together next year, but they would need to have nearly everything falling into place to push them into the playoffs.

Pavel Zacha Still Has Two Years Remaining on His Current Contract

That's why signing off on trading Pavel Zacha this offseason, when he's most valuable and contractually signed for another two years at a solid $4.75M AAV salary, could be the ticket.

In trades, some assets can be acquired by the Bruins, which can help the team rebuild the roster better. Zacha has been attached to the Vancouver Canucks for quite some time.

Vancouver's GM Patrik Allvin can make room for him, and because there is not necessarily any real center talent available on the market, he's the convenient option, per NHL analyst Rob Couch of 'NHL Trade Rumors.'

'Having said that, there are two teams that Zacha has been linked to for a while, the Vancouver Canucks and Utah Mammoth.'

- Rob Couch

Zacha provides two years of stability to an organization looking to put its act together. He's strong at center (53%+ on draws last several years), but can be slid to the wing if it's needed.

A Jake DeBrusk reunion would solidify Vancouver's second unit, and putting Filip Chytil on the third unit would add depth.

In case negotiations with Vancouver fail, the Utah Mammoth have also been suggested as an alternative by Rob Couch. Either way, there are high chances that we could see a Zacha deal this upcoming season.

This article first appeared on Hockey Latest and was syndicated with permission.

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