The Boston Bruins are in discussions with the Vancouver Canucks regarding centers Elias Pettersson and J.T. Miller. General managers Don Sweeney of the Bruins, Kyle Dubas of the Penguins, and Bill Armstrong of the Utah Hockey Club were spotted scouting an AHL match last Friday, hinting at their interest in strengthening their center depth. Pettersson, 26, carries a significant contract with a cap hit of $11.6 million for the next seven years, while Miller, aged 31, has five years remaining at $8 million.
Trade talks suggest that the Canucks are seeking a top-six center or a top-four defenseman, along with a first-round pick or a top prospect in exchange for Pettersson. Names like Trent Frederic, Pavel Zacha, Mason Lohrei, and Matt Poitras have surfaced as potential trade options, but their adequacy and the Bruins' salary cap constraints remain in question.
Meanwhile, the Montreal Canadiens are weighing their options as they remain in playoff contention, with GM Kent Hughes stating it's too early to determine the team's direction before the March 7 trade deadline. Pending unrestricted free agents like David Savard, Jake Evans, Joel Armia, and Christian Dvorak could be moved for draft picks, which might then be flipped for roster players or near-NHL-ready prospects.
