Bruins free agency plan: Trade market, unusually, remains open

Bruins free agency plan: Trade market, unusually, remains open centers on how Boston expects to stay active beyond the start of free agency on Wednesday. General manager Don Sweeney said trade discussions have been ongoing and that some teams may revisit deals if the free-agent pool is not as deep as hoped. Boston used prior windows differently, including depth signings after missing higher-tier targets and major additions in 2024. Sweeney also confirmed the club acquired JJ Peterka from the Utah Mammoth for two first-round picks, but the move increases budget pressure. With about $8.5 million available, Boston faces a right-side defense need as Andrew Peeke becomes eligible and Charlie McAvoy will miss the first six games of 2026-27. Potential targets include Zach Werenski, though his $9,583,333 AAV and a likely cost could require clearing salary.