The Clock is Ticking: Bruins Forward’s Fate Hangs in the Balance

It’s time for another edition of NHL rumours. We’re closing in on the Christmas holiday. However, some clubs will hopefully be getting a late holiday gift. Teams are making over their rosters and some hard decisions need to be made. All teams have pending unrestricted free agents to make choices on. These UFAs can be signed or traded for assets. One attractive UFA target is on the Boston Bruins. This edition of NHL rumours deals with the choice the Bruins will have to make soon.

All NHL rumours come from the original source and are subject to change.

NHL Rumours

Boston Bruins Have to Decide on Pending UFA Forward

Rumour: In a recent edition of Insider Trading, TSN’s Darren Dreger said the Bruins have to decide the fate of a key forward. Dreger mentioned the Bruins have to extend or trade forward Trent Frederic soon.

Analysis: We’re a ways away from the March 7 trade deadline. However, a decision has to be made sooner or later. Bruins General Manger Don Sweeney has to balance what he’ll get for a return versus the cost of keeping him. Frederic currently makes $2.3 million, but should be in line for getting a raise.

The 26-year-old has five goals and six assists for 11 points in 34 games this season. He is coming off a career-best 18 goals last season, but may be hard-pressed to repeat that success.

Boston has overcome a slow start and played better as of late. However, the Atlantic Division is loaded with established teams like the Florida Panthers, Toronto Maple Leafs and Tampa Bay Lightning. It’s also not helping that the Ottawa Senators are making their case for a Stanley Cup Playoff spot.

Decisions, Decisions

Frederic may not be on the high-end of the salary tier. However, his market is still going to a relatively decent one. He’ll most likely command a decent chunk of change.

The young forward could be in demand thanks to his size at 6-foot, 3-inches and 220 pounds. He could figured into the middle or bottom-part of a lineup that could use some size.

We have mentioned in previous editions of NHL rumours that teams have expressed interest in Frederic. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reiterated that teams have once again reached out about Frederic’s availability.

What It Means

The big forward does seem to be the perfect player for the type of team of Boston has. Players like him that are big and have some scoring touch seem to be the correct fit for the Bruins’ culture.

However, it may be an issue of dollars and cents to see if he is a part of the plan. His playing style will make him a hot commodity on any team looking for size and grit.

Friedman mentioned that Frederic is also a good teammate with a high compete level in a recent edition of the 32 Thoughts podcast. Teams would be smart to at least put out a feeler on the rugged skater.

Sweeney has a decision to make, but he’ll have plenty of suitors should he be inclined to make a deal.