BreKel
Joined: May 2016
Posts: 3,537
Likes: 460
I saw a Bruins fan post up a Virtanen for Spooner swap on another site, and at first I was completely turned off by it with Virtanen's lack of success in the NHL and AHL, but after looking into it more, I wouldn't hate it. Vancouver might not be for it, so I'd be interested in their take on a deal. Wouldn't have to be a 1 for 1....I could see both sides adding to it, if needed (Bruins adding for Virtanen, and Vanocouver adding something (minor) for Spooner). But the premise of the deal is that Vancouver has interest in Spooner according to Ryan Kennedy, THN. Boston has a need for a player who actually fits the team better, and Virtanen (who may need a change of scenery after a shaky start in Vancouver) may be a perfect fit. He can come in and slide right next to Bergeron and Marchand. If he struggles, the Bruins slide him down in the lineup, and he still plays a game effective for that role.
After that, in this scenario, Boston doesn't seek a LW via trade and goes with a young player with upside. DeBrusk has had himself a solid rookie season, coming on of late and carrying it into the playoffs. Cassidy has hinted at giving him a look at a top 6 role next year already. Also for this scenario, the Bruins can't find a buyer for Beleskey and see if he can regain his form from his first season here. If he could do that, it would be huge for Boston. Kuraly, to me, fits in a 4th line role, and he subs in for anyone is struggling. O'Gara subs in for Colin if he struggles.