Could the rumors swirling around the Boston Bruins potentially acquiring or signing Edmonton Oilers superstar center Leon Draisaitl have some substance to them?
Three weeks ago, Georges Laraque, a former NHLer and current NHL analyst in Quebec, mentioned the possibility of Draisaitl joining the Bruins during an appearance on BPM Sports, 91.9 FM in Montreal. Laraque reported that Draisaitl is intrigued by the idea of playing for Boston if he doesn’t extend his contract with the Oilers. He quoted someone within the Oilers organization who suggested that if the team doesn’t make a deep playoff run, Draisaitl might prefer becoming a first-line center for the Bruins.
Laraque later clarified his statement to Boston Hockey Now, explaining that he was informed about the uncertainty surrounding Draisaitl’s future with the Oilers and mentioned Boston as a potential destination due to their need for a top-line center.
The Bruins indeed lack a true No.1 center, with players like Charlie Coyle and Pavel Zacha filling in but not possessing the caliber of Draisaitl. However, there haven’t been any other reports indicating Draisaitl’s desire for a change of scenery.
As Draisaitl’s Oilers gear up to face the Dallas Stars in the Western Conference Final, the German forward is a leading candidate for the 2024 Conn Smythe Trophy. He leads the NHL in points, goals, and assists, showcasing his immense talent and value to his team.
Draisaitl is entering the final year of his current contract, an eight-year deal worth $68 million. Interestingly, a source close to Draisaitl mentioned to Boston Hockey Now that the German forward regularly trains with Bruins star winger David Pastrnak during the offseason in Prague, and the two have developed a friendship.
Pastrnak expressed his willingness to assist Bruins GM Don Sweeney in recruiting players, emphasizing the appeal of playing for the Boston organization. While the possibility of Draisaitl joining the Bruins this offseason seems remote, if it were to materialize, Pastrnak’s connection could play a role in the recruitment process, potentially forming a formidable forward line and powerplay unit for Boston.