The Boston Bruins have made some significant moves in the off-season, acquiring key players and making strategic changes to their lineup. The team is looking to build upon their 45-27-10 record from the 2025-26 season, where they finished fourth in the Atlantic Division and lost in the Eastern Conference First Round. Here's a breakdown of their recent acquisitions and key departures, along with an analysis of their current situation and future prospects.
Key Acquisitions
JJ Peterka
JJ Peterka, a 24-year-old forward, was traded from the Utah Mammoth to the Bruins on June 26 for a draft pick and a conditional first-round pick in 2028. Peterka had a solid season in Utah, scoring 47 points (25 goals, 22 assists) in 82 games. With four years left on his five-year deal, he will get a chance to play on the top line with David Pastrnak, which could lead to a bounce-back season for him. His ice time increased to 15:59 in 2025-26, and he has the potential to set NHL career highs in goals and points.
Will Borgen
The Bruins acquired the 29-year-old defenseman from the New York Rangers on July 1 for a second-round pick in 2027 and a conditional third-round pick in 2028. Borgen had 15 points (five goals, 10 assists) in 75 games for the Rangers last season, averaging 18:03 of ice time. His addition provides the team with a solid defensive presence.
Connor Clifton
Connor Clifton, a 31-year-old defenseman, returns to the Bruins after playing for the Sabres and Penguins. He signed a two-year contract on July 1 and had six points (two goals, four assists) in 50 games last season. Clifton's experience and versatility will be valuable to the team.
Key Departures
Viktor Arvidsson
Viktor Arvidsson, a 33-year-old forward, signed a two-year contract with the Detroit Red Wings as an unrestricted free agent. He had a bounce-back season with the Bruins, scoring 54 points (25 goals, 29 assists) in 69 games. His departure leaves a gap in the team's scoring depth.
Joonas Korpisalo
Joonas Korpisalo, a 32-year-old goalie, was traded to the Rangers on July 1 for forward Kalle Vaisanen and a fourth-round pick in the 2028 draft. Korpisalo served as the backup goalie in Boston for the past two seasons, posting impressive statistics. His departure makes room for Michael DiPietro, who will be the backup to Jeremy Swayman.
Andrew Peeke
Andrew Peeke, a 28-year-old defenseman, signed a one-year contract with the Utah Mammoth. He spent the past two seasons in Boston, recording 14 points (five goals, nine assists) in 77 games. Peeke's departure leaves a defensive role open for the Bruins.
On the Cusp
James Hagens
James Hagens, a 19-year-old forward, made his NHL debut at the end of the last season. He played in two regular-season games and three Stanley Cup Playoff games for the Bruins. Hagens had 47 points (23 goals, 24 assists) in 34 games for Boston College prior to his debut. He is expected to make the Bruins this season, starting on the wing before transitioning to center.
Michael DiPietro
Michael DiPietro, a 27-year-old goalie, was acquired to serve as the backup to Jeremy Swayman. He had a successful season with the AHL's Providence, winning the goalie of the year award. DiPietro has four games of NHL experience and will be a valuable addition to the team's goaltending depth.
Frederic Brunet
Frederic Brunet, a 22-year-old defenseman, has played one game in the NHL and spent last season with Providence. He recorded 36 points (12 goals, 24 assists) in 65 games. Brunet will be subject to waivers this season and could be a valuable depth option for the Bruins' defense.
What They Still Need
The Bruins are in search of a top-tier center to anchor their top line. Elias Lindholm, who was signed on July 1, 2024, has been hampered by a back injury. They found success with Pavel Zacha and Fraser Minten in 2025-26, but a top-end center is still a priority. James Hagens may eventually transition to center, but he is not yet ready for that role.
Edge Stat to Watch
Jeremy Swayman, the Bruins' No. 1 goalie, was a finalist for the Vezina Trophy last season. He led the NHL in quality starts (38) and ranked second in mid-range save percentage (.928). Swayman's performance and consistency will be crucial to the team's success.
Fantasy Spin
JJ Peterka, tied for 16th in the NHL in 5-on-5 goals over the past three seasons, has the potential to set new career highs with the Bruins. He could play on the first line and power play with David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha, who both had impressive seasons. Jeremy Swayman, ranked third in fantasy leagues last season, is expected to continue his strong performance.
Projected Lineup
- JJ Peterka - Pavel Zacha - David Pastrnak
- Marat Khustnutdinov - Elias Lindholm - Morgan Geekie
- Casey Mittelstadt - Fraser Minten - James Hagens
- Tanner Jeannot - Sean Kuraly - Mark Kastelic
- Jonathan Aspirot - Charlie McAvoy
- Hampus Lindholm - Will Borgen
- Nikita Zadorov - Connor Clifton
- Jeremy Swayman
- Michael DiPietro
The Boston Bruins have made strategic moves to improve their roster, but they still have work to do to become a top contender. The acquisition of key players and the development of young talent will be crucial to their success in the upcoming season.
