The focus for the Boston Bruins this offseason has primarily centered on their unrestricted free agents, comprising 14 players including prominent forward Jake DeBrusk. Additionally, goaltender Linus Ullmark has been a focal point amidst rumors linking him to the Ottawa Senators as a potential destination, considering he has one year left on his current contract. Alongside these discussions, the Bruins are also managing a group of seven restricted free agents (RFAs) whose futures with the team are yet to be solidified. This group includes notable names like goaltender Jeremy Swayman, who is anticipated to secure a long-term deal with the Bruins.
Following the recent signing of AHL defenseman Ian Mitchell to a one-year, two-way contract worth $775,000, attention now turns to the remaining RFAs. Among them are NHL forward Jesper Boqvist, goaltender Brandon Bussi, AHL forwards Joey Abate, Marc McLaughlin, and Curtis Hall, as well as defensemen Alec Regula and Michael Callahan. General Manager Don Sweeney faces critical decisions as he navigates the team’s roster composition for the upcoming 2024-25 season, both in Boston and Providence.
### Potential Retained RFAs:
**Brandon Bussi** stands out as a likely candidate for re-signing, especially given his role as a potential backup to Jeremy Swayman. Bussi has proven his capabilities with the Providence Bruins, posting a commendable 23-10-5 record during the 2023-24 season with solid statistics despite a slight downturn from previous years.
**Jesper Boqvist**, known for his speed and forechecking abilities, presents an intriguing option for Boston’s fourth-line duties. Having contributed six goals and eight assists in 47 NHL games last season, Boqvist’s expected contract cost remains manageable, potentially with a modest raise.
**Alec Regula**, acquired from the Detroit Red Wings, offers depth on defense following his acquisition in a trade involving Nick Foligno and Taylor Hall. At 23 years old, Regula’s potential as a defenseman within the Bruins’ system makes him a probable retention for the upcoming season.
**Michael Callahan**, a Massachusetts native acquired from the Arizona Coyotes, has shown promise as a defenseman capable of logging significant ice time. With his development trajectory, retaining Callahan to bolster defensive depth seems a prudent move for Boston.
### Likely Departures:
**Marc McLaughlin**, despite an initial burst onto the scene with four goals in 14 NHL games, faced challenges during his AHL campaign last season. At 25 years old, a change of scenery might benefit the forward as he seeks opportunities for growth elsewhere.
**Curtis Hall** and **Joey Abate** are also unlikely to return to the Bruins. Hall, a fourth-round pick, struggled with consistency across various levels, while Abate, though providing depth, hasn’t secured a significant role over his tenure with Providence.
### Conclusion:
The Bruins have until July 1 to finalize these decisions, balancing budgetary constraints, player development trajectories, and roster needs across their NHL and AHL affiliates. Each decision regarding RFAs involves weighing potential, performance trends, and alignment with the team’s strategic objectives for the upcoming season. As negotiations unfold, Bruins fans await clarity on which players will remain integral to the team’s future and who may seek opportunities elsewhere in the league.
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