As the Boston Bruins find themselves in first place in the Atlantic Division, there are several wishes on their holiday list for the season. Despite their current standing, the team recognizes areas for improvement and hopes for a successful campaign. Here are the key wishes for the Bruins this holiday season:
1. **Acquire a Top-Six Center:**
– The Bruins are in need of a top-six center to replace Patrice Bergeron. While players like Pavel Zacha, Charlie Coyle, and Matthew Poitras have performed well, there is a consensus that adding a top-tier center is crucial.
– Potential targets include Elias Lindholm of the Calgary Flames, but the high asking price poses a challenge. General Manager Don Sweeney might have to consider trading players, such as Jake DeBrusk, top prospects like Fabian Lysell, or a combination to secure a deal.
2. **Maintain Good Health:**
– Injuries have affected the Bruins recently, with players like Derek Forbort on Long Term Injured Reserve (LTIR) and others leaving games due to injuries. The team acknowledges that injuries are part of the game, but they need to avoid significant depth issues.
– Defensive depth seems more manageable, but there’s a concern about forward depth. The wish is to stay healthy to ensure a strong lineup throughout the season, especially during crucial playoff moments.
3. **Jeremy Swayman Contract Extension:**
– Goaltender Jeremy Swayman’s contract situation was resolved with a one-year deal following an arbitration hearing. As of January 1, Swayman becomes eligible for a long-term extension, and securing his future with the team is a priority.
– With Swayman seen as the future No. 1 goalie for the Bruins, a contract extension beyond the current season would be a significant and positive development for the team.
4. **Secure a Berth in the Stanley Cup Playoffs:**
– Despite being in first place in the Atlantic Division, the Bruins aim to solidify their spot in the playoffs. After a disappointing elimination in the previous postseason, the team wants to make a deep run to erase the memory of that experience.
– The focus is on finishing in the top eight in the Eastern Conference, giving them a chance to redeem themselves and showcase their capabilities in the playoffs.
While there may be additional wishes on the Bruins’ list, addressing these four key areas—acquiring a top-six center, maintaining good health, securing a contract extension for Jeremy Swayman, and clinching a playoff berth—would undoubtedly set a positive course for the team, its general manager, and the coaching staff led by Jim Montgomery.
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