3 Moves The Boston Bruins Need To Make This Off-Season

With the current core getting older, it seems that the Bruins' Stanley Cup window is closing. After a pretty strong season, the Bruins would be heavily outmatched by the Islanders in the second round of the playoffs. This off-season is expected to be a very busy one for the team, as they have many players to re-sign and want to remain contenders. They have a lot of money going into the off-season, so they should be a very aggressive team this summer.

Here are three moves they should make this off-season

Bring Back The 3 Big UFAs: Tuukka Rask, David Krejci and Taylor Hall should be re-signed. Although Rask will be out until at least January, the Bruins need him to mentor Jeremy Swayman and he should come at a cheaper price. Krejci has stated that he wants to remain in Boston and is willing to take on less money, too. There are some rumblings about him going to the Czech Republic, but if he stays in the NHL, he needs to come back. Lastly, Hall has stated numerous times that he will take less money and he wants an extension in Boston because he feels that there's a fit there. If they don't re-sign him, Hall may end up on the Leafs.

Trade Jake DeBrusk: Jake DeBrusk's time in Boston is likely over. The winger has struggled the last two seasons and has fallen out of favor with coach Bruce Cassidy. He was a healthy scratch numerous times during the season and even in the playoffs. He should have some value because he is still only 24-years-old and has had past offensive success.

Bring In Top-Four, Left-Handed Defenseman: The Bruins definitely need to improve the left side of their defensive group. After losing both Torey Krug and Zdeno Chara last off-season, they played their rookies and it just did not work. There are some interesting options for them to consider. Jamie Oleksiak and Alec Martinez would be a great additions via free agency. Vince Dunn and Oliver Ekman-Larsson are also available through trade. However, Dunn would be the better option since OEL's contract is risky. If Keith Yandle gets bought out by the Panthers, he could be a nice add, too.

Honorable Mention: The Bruins should work hard to lock up RFA Brandon Carlo to a deal. He experienced multiple concussions this season, so there may be risk in signing him long-term. However, he is their best defensive defenseman and an immensely important piece moving forward.