BREAK: Boston Bruins $20 million Free Agent Targets

Tyler Toffoli 

Projected Contract: 2 years, $4 million. 

One player that Sweeney is monitoring this off-season is veteran Tyler Toffoli. At 32, Toffoli will be exploring the open market after wrapping up the season with the Winnipeg Jets. He was traded to the Jets from the New Jersey Devils at this year’s deadline following a disappointing start to the season.

The Jets were Toffoli’s sixth team since he entered the league in the 2012-2013 season. He previously played for the L.A. Kings, winning two Stanley Cups with them. As a versatile forward capable of playing both left and right wing, Toffoli could be a valuable option for the Bruins, potentially bolstering their middle-six forward group with his goal-scoring ability.

While Toffoli isn’t particularly strong in transitional offense, he is effective in the offensive zone, especially in generating chances for his teammates thanks to his veteran hockey IQ. He could enhance the team’s scoring on either the second or third line.

Elias Lindholm

Projected Contract: 5 years, $6.5 million. 

 

The Boston Bruins have been eagerly seeking a top-six center, and Elias Lindholm has been a target for Sweeney since last off-season. Lindholm, a right-handed center, also has the versatility to play right wing.

Beginning his career with the Carolina Hurricanes in the 2013-2014 season, Lindholm later moved to the Calgary Flames, where he notably averaged a point per game in his fourth season alongside Johnny Gaudreau and Matthew Tkachuk. Lindholm’s balanced two-way style and knack for creating space and momentum during offensive transitions make him an appealing fit alongside superstar David Pastrnak on the Bruins’ top line.

Furthermore, Lindholm’s agility and speed make him effective in causing turnovers in the neutral zone, addressing an area where the Bruins struggled in the past season. Additionally, Lindholm could bolster Boston’s faceoff proficiency, an aspect that proved to be a significant weakness for the team in the previous season.

Jonathan Marchessault

Projected Contract: 3 years, $6.2 million.

Depth scoring has emerged as a primary concern for the Boston Bruins in recent seasons, prompting them to prioritize it in free agency. Jonathan Marchessault, a seasoned player with recent success, stands out as a top target. Notably, he clinched the Stanley Cup with the Las Vegas Golden Knights in 2023 and received the prestigious Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoffs’ MVP.

During this season, Marchessault showcased his scoring prowess by leading the Golden Knights with impressive statistics: 42 goals, 27 assists, and a total of 69 points across 82 games. His agility on the ice addresses a notable gap within the Bruins’ lineup, while his resilience, despite his modest stature of 5’8″, is remarkable. Marchessault poses a significant threat to opposing teams with his speed, quick shot, and willingness to engage in physical battles around the net and in the corners.

Considering his skill set, Marchessault could seamlessly slot into the Bruins’ second-line winger position alongside Brad Marchand and Charlie Coyle. His addition would bolster their goal-scoring capabilities and offer another sharpshooter option for the second powerplay unit, further solidifying their offensive depth.