Bruins Inquire About Canucks’ Sherwood and Garland
Boston Bruins general manager Don Sweeney is actively seeking depth scoring options as the team aims to maintain its competitive edge in the Eastern Conference standings. Recent inquiries suggest that the Bruins have shown interest in two wingers from the Vancouver Canucks: Kiefer Sherwood and Conor Garland.
Bruins’ Interest in Canucks’ Wingers
Sources indicate that the Bruins have reached out regarding both Sherwood and Garland. With injuries impacting key players like David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha, the Bruins are looking to enhance their scoring capabilities. According to an NHL source, “They have 100 percent called on both players.” The team believes these additions could help them remain competitive.
Kiefer Sherwood: A Scoring Asset
Kiefer Sherwood, a 30-year-old forward from Columbus, Ohio, is proving to be a valuable target for potential trades. As of Saturday night, he led the Canucks with 12 goals in just 25 games. Furthermore, he tied for second in points on the team with 16, showcasing his offensive productivity.
Sherwood’s contract, which carries a manageable cap hit of $1.5 million, has made him attractive to teams looking for scoring reinforcement. His current deal runs through the end of the season, adding to his desirability in the trade market. Additional interest has also come from the New York Islanders, Buffalo Sabres, and Detroit Red Wings.
Conor Garland: Core Player Status
Conor Garland, an accomplished 29-year-old forward, is another player on the Bruins’ radar. Garland has been a focal point in previous trade discussions, including during the 2022 NHL Trade Deadline. The Canucks signed him to a significant six-year, $36 million contract in July, affirming their commitment to him as a core player.
Despite potential interest from Sweeney and the Bruins, the Canucks currently do not intend to trade Garland. A source remarked, “They still really consider him a core player and a heart-and-soul guy that can score.” Nonetheless, should the team’s performance decline, the situation may change.
Canucks’ Trade Availability
Vancouver’s President of Hockey Operations, Jim Rutherford, has communicated to other NHL teams that several veterans may be available for trade. Notably, star defenseman Quinn Hughes and goalie Thatcher Demko are off-limits, but other forwards and defensemen could be on the market at the right price.
- Available Players: Top-nine forwards or defensemen (excluding Hughes)
- Notable Injuries: David Pastrnak, Pavel Zacha (Boston Bruins)
- Shakeup Potential: Team dynamics may change based on performance
As the NHL trade deadline approaches, the Bruins will continue to evaluate options to enhance their roster and maintain their position in the Eastern Conference. Sherwood and Garland are two players that could significantly impact the team’s prospects moving forward.
