During the NHL summer, the Boston Bruins need to add a little more speed to their roster and acquire another top-six forward. Would it make sense for them to go after Martin Necas?
For the past few weeks, there have been trade rumours surrounding the forward for the Carolina Hurricanes. This summer, he is eligible to become a restricted free agent, so the Hurricanes must determine if they want to keep him around.
Which teams could want to acquire Necas if the Hurricanes decide to make them available?
The teams that have expressed broad interest are the Winnipeg Jets, Chicago Blackhawks, Montreal Canadiens, Calgary Flames, and Boston Bruins, according to Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic on Thursday. “Whether they are among the five to seven Carolina sees as matches, I’m not sure.”
“It is without a doubt he wants a change of scenery,” LeBrun added.
Given that Necas is only 25 years old, he would be a perfect addition to the Bruins’ core, which also includes Jeremy Swayman (25), Charlie McAvoy (26), and David Pastrnak (28).
Although the Czech attacker is a versatile player who can play centre, Carolina has primarily employed him as a winger. After Charlie Coyle and Pavel Zacha struggled to create offence and score goals at 5-on-5 during the playoffs, the Bruins are in desperate need of a top-six centre.
Necas played in 77 games last season and finished with 53 points (24 goals, 29 assists). With 28 goals and 43 assists in 82 games during the 2022–2023 season, he achieved career highs. Necas played in 11 games during the Hurricanes’ playoff run last season, scoring nine points (four goals, five assists). Necas is among the league’s fastest players, it’s also fair to state.
According to CapFriendly, the Bruins now have roughly $21.2 million in salary cap space. Along with other internal free agents, they must re-sign goalkeeper Jeremy Swayman (RFA) and take into consideration re-signing Jake DeBrusk (UFA).
Necas would require a new contract if the B’s were to acquire him. That might come with a high price tag, but considering his age and skill level, getting a player like him would be a wise investment. Necas is also acquainted with Pavel Zacha and David Pastrnak, two forwards for the Bruins. Earlier this month, at the 2024 IIHF World Championships, the three of them assisted Czechia in winning the gold medal.
There are many talented free agents that might become available on July 1st if the Bruins are unable to reach an agreement with Necas. Steven Stamkos, Elias Lindholm, Sam Reinhart, Jake Guentzel, Jonathan Marchessault, Tyler Toffoli, Chandler Stephenson, and Anthony Mantha are among the elite forwards that might be available.
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