After a disappointing 2024–25 campaign that ended with the Boston Bruins tied for last place in the Eastern Conference alongside the Philadelphia Flyers, general manager Don Sweeney is entering a critical off-season. Missing the playoffs and parting ways with key players at the trade deadline was a jarring experience for both the team and its fanbase.
Earlier this week, the Bruins secured the seventh overall pick in the upcoming NHL Draft via the lottery. With free agency opening on July 1, a number of moves—potentially including trades—are expected. The front office appears to be focused on retooling rather than undergoing a full rebuild, looking for smart, under-the-radar additions. Here are three key priorities for the off-season:
1. Re-sign Morgan Geekie
This should be an easy decision. After an unexpected breakout season with 32 goals—surpassing his previous best of 17 from his first year in Boston—Morgan Geekie has proven to be a major asset. His current contract, which carries a $2 million AAV, has been a steal.
Following the trade deadline, Geekie, Elias Lindholm, and David Pastrnak formed the team’s top-performing line under interim coach Joe Sacco. Geekie has expressed his desire to remain in Boston, and Sweeney confirmed the team intends to keep him. Finalizing a new contract should be a top priority.
2. Trade Joonas Korpisalo
Although this may not be a popular move, there’s a strong case for moving on from Joonas Korpisalo. Acquired in the Linus Ullmark trade with Ottawa, Korpisalo was expected to serve as Jeremy Swayman’s backup and did show some improvement over his previous season.
However, after a late-season loss to Buffalo, Korpisalo made public comments questioning his playing time—and doubled down after the season ended, even criticizing the coaching staff. His agent reportedly told the front office to either increase his role or trade him. Given his $8.25 million AAV, keeping Korpisalo as a disgruntled backup doesn’t make sense. Sweeney should consider trading him and bringing in a cheaper backup like Michael DiPietro or Brandon Bussi to create some cap flexibility.
3. Add a Top Center or Winger
It’s clear that the Bruins need to add a high-end forward this summer. While both positions need attention, acquiring a top-six center should be the bigger priority, as Elias Lindholm doesn’t appear suited for that role over a full season. The team also still hasn’t replaced Jake DeBrusk’s scoring ability after his departure to Vancouver last summer.
Sweeney must fill at least one, if not both, of these roles. Geekie and Pastrnak were strong, but expecting Geekie to replicate a 30-goal season might be unrealistic. More firepower is essential if the Bruins want to bounce back quickly.
In summary, this off-season will be pivotal for Boston. If the Bruins want to execute a quick retool rather than a drawn-out rebuild, Sweeney will need to make some crucial decisions—and get them right.
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