Bruins forced into trade to pull off blockbuster move!

Everyone keeps saying that the Boston Bruins are on the verge of making a significant trade, potentially acquiring defenseman Vladislav Gavrikov from the Columbus Blue Jackets for a boost on the back end ahead of the postseason.

Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman explains why we are still waiting on this huge trade. In his latest 32 Thoughts column, the insider reveals how the Bruins need to make a move in order to land Gavrikov without breaking the rules on the cap front.

“It’s been a week since Columbus pulled Vladislav Gavrikov from the lineup; everything points to Massachusetts as the landing spot. It’s believed the Bruins needed another move to make everything work (Mike Rielly? Craig Smith?) and, to this point, the Blue Jackets remain patient.”

There are reports that the Bruins have been calling other teams looking to move Smith and his $3.1 million cap hit to help them clear space.

This trade is needed especially if the Bruins look to acquire Gavrikov. For now, the Blue Jackets keep waiting - maybe the offered return from Boston is too good to move on - but what happens as we get closer to the trade deadline?

The Bruins might have contingency plans if Gavrikov doesn’t work out, but they appear set on landing the defenseman for the postseason.

As soon as something happens with Smith or Rielly, you better believe we will all be on blockbuster trade watch in Boston!

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