The Boston Bruins failed to make the playoffs this season for the first time in nine years—and only the fifth time in the past 23 seasons. As one of the NHL’s most consistent postseason contenders, the six-time Stanley Cup champions have rarely endured extended playoff droughts. In fact, the franchise hasn’t missed the playoffs in back-to-back seasons since 1967.
That history of success is why, despite finishing last in their division for the first time since 2007—back when they competed in the five-team Northeast Division—the Bruins remain committed to their long-standing “win or nothing” mindset.
During the team’s end-of-season media availability, Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov, who led the NHL in penalty minutes (145) this past season, emphasized the pressing need to quickly get the team back on track.
‘Win or Nothing’ For Struggling Boston
“What, are they going to waste [David Pastrnak’s] prime years? I mean, I don’t have many years left,” said Nikita Zadorov, as quoted by Boston Globe reporter Conor Ryan. “Both Lindys [Hampus and Elias Lindholm], C-Mac [Charlie McAvoy]—it’s clearly win or nothing here.”
Elias Lindholm, who joined the Bruins last summer from the Vancouver Canucks to anchor the top line, was just as blunt—but about his own performance.
“I haven’t been good enough,” Lindholm admitted. It was a fair assessment. Despite playing all 82 games and averaging 18:05 of ice time, the 30-year-old former first-round pick of the Carolina Hurricanes managed just 17 goals and 47 points.
Boston’s need for a legitimate top-six center is evident, and one potential solution—suggested by FanSided’s Bruins writer Shamus Sullivan—is trading for Trevor Zegras of the Anaheim Ducks.
At just 24, Zegras has had two injury-plagued seasons, but when healthy, the former ninth overall pick in 2019 has proven to be a reliable 60-point scorer. He posted 23 goals and 42 assists for 65 points in 2022-23, and notched 61 points during his rookie season, earning a spot on the NHL All-Rookie First Team. Zegras, a native of Bedford, New York, also has local ties as a Boston University alum.
Trade Would Land ‘Dynamic’ Ducks Center
“Zegras is a skilled young center who might flourish with a change of scenery,” FanSided’s Shamus Sullivan wrote last week. “Landing him would likely require a hefty return, possibly including the No. 7 overall pick and prospects—which the Bruins don’t have in abundance.”
An alternative trade proposal could see Boston offering the No. 7 pick, along with Casey Mittelstadt—who was acquired at the trade deadline from Colorado in the Charlie Coyle deal—and potentially a second-round pick to tempt Anaheim into parting with Zegras.