Bruins Rumors: Could Boston Flip Joonas Korpisalo This Summer?

The Boston Bruins' trade of Linus Ullmark to the Ottawa Senators, which brought Joonas Korpisalo, forward Mark Kastelic, and a 2024 first-round draft pick (25th overall) to Boston, has led to significant speculation about Korpisalo's future with the team.

Korpisalo struggled last season, ranking 97th out of 98 goalies in goals saved above expected, and his $3 million cap hit for the next four years poses a challenge for the Bruins.

Given these factors, many, including NBC Sports Boston’s Nick Goss, speculate that the Bruins might attempt to flip Korpisalo this summer to create additional cap space and acquire other assets.

THIS JUST IN 👀

The @NHLBruins and @Senators have made a deal that'll see Joonas Korpisalo and Linus Ullmark swap places! pic.twitter.com/VNYNSHsGFE
— NHL (@NHL) June 24, 2024

One potential strategy could involve packaging Korpisalo with a draft pick or prospect to make him more appealing to potential trade partners, or retaining part of his salary to facilitate a move.

By trading Korpisalo, the Bruins could use the freed-up cap space to address other pressing needs, such as acquiring a top-six forward or a reliable top-four defenseman. This move would also reduce the pressure on Jeremy Swayman, allowing the team to secure a more dependable backup goaltender.

However, if the Bruins cannot find a suitable trade partner, they might consider retaining Korpisalo as Swayman's backup for the upcoming season.

Joonas Korpisalo makes the save on Jesper Fast on the Penalty Shot attempt 🧱 pic.twitter.com/aylknzGvn9
— Martian (@LalimesMartian) October 11, 2023

Alternatively, they could explore the option of buying out the remainder of his contract, but that's pretty unlikely.

The ultimate decision will depend on the market for goaltenders and the Bruins' broader roster strategy, but flipping Korpisalo remains a plausible option as they look to optimize their lineup and maintain cap flexibility.

Photo Credit: Marc DesRosiers-USA TODAY Sports