When the trade deadline passed, Boston Bruins GM Don Sweeney made the necessary moves. He dealt several players, including some key ones, and initiated a long-overdue process—whether you call it a reset or a retool.
It was inevitable. The current approach was no longer effective, and changes had to happen. This may not be the final set of moves, as additional adjustments could come in the offseason when Sweeney works to assemble a competitive roster for the 2025-26 season with the goal of returning to the playoffs.
No matter what Sweeney does, he’ll always face criticism from Bruins fans, but this move was necessary. Overall, the returns were solid and justified the trades. We gave Sweeney a grade, as did Bleacher Report, but the two assessments differed.
Looking at all the trades and departures—Trent Frederic, Max Jones, Justin Brazeau, Charlie Coyle, Brandon Carlo, and Brad Marchand—some moves were necessary to facilitate the long-overdue retool. Will every return prove to be worth it? Probably not, as that’s rarely the case, but some were certainly valuable.
The Bruins’ championship window has officially closed—even Brad Marchand acknowledged it. Two years ago, after setting an NHL record for wins and points in a season, Don Sweeney went all-in at the trade deadline, acquiring Dmitry Orlov and Garnet Hathaway from the Capitals and Tyler Bertuzzi from the Red Wings. Despite the aggressive moves, Boston suffered a shocking first-round exit against the Panthers, blowing a 3-1 series lead. When Florida tied the game in the final minute of regulation and then won in overtime, it was clear—their window had slammed shut.
Sweeney made the right call at this year’s trade deadline, executing much-needed moves. Now, he faces the challenge of getting this retool right after a misstep last offseason. If he doesn’t, his job could be on the line. This deadline was a shift for the Bruins, who found themselves as sellers rather than buyers—an unfamiliar position. However, Sweeney handled it well, and a B- grade doesn’t fairly reflect the reality of the situation.