Lyle Richardson Of The Hockey News On Toucher & Rich: Bruins Potential Trade Targets
BOSTON (CBS) - The NHL Trade deadline is just over a week away, and given their recent struggles, the Boston Bruins seem primed to make a move.
Lyle Richardson of The Hockey News joined 98.5 The Sports Hub's Toucher & Rich on Thursday -- with Ryan Johnston and Dan Roche filling in -- to break down a couple moves the Bruins may make before the April 3 deadline.
"The priority is going to be to address the injuries to (Chris) Kelly and (Adam) McQuaid – bringing in a physical defenseman as well as some checking line depth," said Richardson. "The fans desire to see a guy like Jerome Iginla or a guy like Daniel Aflredsson out of Ottawa... I wouldn't necessarily rule out the possibility of Chiarelli going after a big fish, but the priority is replacing Kelly and perhaps bringing in a short-term replacement for McQuaid."
Read: McQuaid Out 3-4 Weeks With Shoulder Strain
So who is out there for Bruins?
"I know the Bruins have been scouting (forwards) Ryane Clowe of San Jose and Brenden Morrow, the captain of the Dallas Stars," said Richardson. "Both players are going to be restricted free agents this summer, and it doesn't sound like they'll be resigned. The Sharks would like to sign Clowe, but they'll have some salary cap issues."
"The problem is that while they can play some solid third-line minutes for you, the quality of their play has declined," he said of those two potential targets. "This season, Clowe has been struggling to score offensively… and there is some concern about his health."
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Clowe has just seven assists and no goals this season, while Morrow -- a 12-year vet -- has just five goals and six assists in 25 games.
Right now there isn't too much on the open market due to the strike-shortened start, but that could change soon.
"Because of the shortened season you have so many teams still in it. I would suggest over the next couple weeks we may see some things shake loose a little more," said Richardson. "In the East I'd keep an eye on Washington; there is the thought that Mike Ribero could be available. He's their top center this year, but again, he's a restricted free agent after this year. Bufalo is another team to keep an eye one, guys like Robert Rigger. If you're looking for someone to replace McQuaid he might be a good addition."
