The Boston Bruins could be shifting their strategy as the NHL trade deadline approaches on March 7, with injuries and inconsistent play complicating their playoff push. Sitting one point outside the Eastern Conference wild-card spot, the Bruins face a critical six-game stretch starting Tuesday against the Atlantic Division-leading Toronto Maple Leafs. General Manager Don Sweeney hinted at a more cautious approach this year, contrasting with the team’s historically aggressive deadline moves: *”We’ll take a much more cautious approach as we approach the deadline.”*
Key injuries have hampered the Bruins, with defensemen Hampus Lindholm (likely out for the season) and Charlie McAvoy sidelined. Compounding the challenges, Boston is mired in an 0-2-1 slump, including a 3-2 overtime loss to the Anaheim Ducks on Saturday. Despite rallying from a two-goal deficit, the Bruins couldn’t secure a win, underscoring their urgency.
Forward Elias Lindholm emphasized the team’s mindset: *”We’ve got to treat every game like a playoff game. There are 24 games left, and we need to win a lot to get in.”* Interim coach Joe Sacco echoed the sentiment, urging the team to embrace the pressure: *”We’re in a fight right now. These are meaningful games, and it’s an opportunity to make ground.”*
In a tactical adjustment, Sacco tested forward Morgan Geekie on the first power-play unit during Monday’s practice. Geekie, who scored the tying goal against Anaheim (his eighth in 12 games), could add a spark to a struggling special teams unit. With the deadline looming and playoff hopes hanging in the balance, Boston’s next moves—on and off the ice—will define their season.
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