Bruins Eye Right-Handed Defenseman Options This Summer

The Boston Bruins are on the lookout for reinforcements this offseason, with a particular emphasis on enhancing their roster's speed, skill, and securing a top center. However, the need for right-shot defensemen remains a significant concern for the team. Unrestricted free agent Andrew Peeke is one option available, and the Bruins showed interest in trading for Rasmus Andersson back in January, highlighting their intent to bolster their right-side defense.

Currently, the Bruins have three right-handed defensemen under contract for next season—two on the NHL roster and one in the AHL. Nonetheless, one of the NHL players saw limited action in recent games, and the Bruins' prospect pool lacks promising young right-shot defensemen. They have until August to sign Mason Langenbrunner, who recently graduated from Harvard, while Max Wanner is in the final year of his entry-level deal but has not yet made an impact in the NHL.

In light of this, several young right-handed defensemen from around the league could be appealing trade targets. Mason Lohrei, who improved this past season, has been mentioned in trade discussions, particularly as Sportsnet’s Nick Kypreos indicated that the Bruins are exploring options to enhance their lineup.

Three restricted free agent defensemen are emerging as potential candidates for a trade, especially with the scouting combine and draft approaching, which could intensify discussions. Among them is Simon Nemec of the New Jersey Devils, who, despite not formally requesting a trade, is a sought-after player. Drafted second overall in 2022, the 22-year-old defenseman recorded a career-high 26 points in his first full NHL season.

Another name to consider is Braden Schneider of the New York Rangers. The 25-year-old is a restricted free agent with arbitration rights and posted a career-best 21 points last season. However, his underlying stats have raised concerns, and the Rangers may be looking to trade him for a scoring forward.

Lastly, Michael Kesselring of the Buffalo Sabres is also on the radar. Acquired last summer, the 26-year-old suffered injuries but has shown potential, finishing last season with limited appearances. With the Sabres managing their cap space and roster decisions, Kesselring could be an intriguing option for the Bruins to explore.