Boston Bruins and Vancouver Canucks to combine for two different trades: Things are heating up

Multiple league voices indicated Boston has checked in on both forwards, signaling real interest rather than a casual scan.

The Bruins have been searching for scoring help and middle-six stability, and both Sherwood and Garland fit that mold in different ways. Reports out of Vancouver suggest the Canucks are listening, even if the price will not be cheap.

Sherwood offers a heavy, straight-line game that Boston likes. His recent production has only raised his value, and his ability to score while playing with an edge fits seamlessly with how the Bruins want to attack.

Garland, meanwhile, brings creativity and relentless puck pressure. Though undersized, he has earned a reputation as a difficult player to defend and a player capable of shifting momentum for his team.

A second source cautioned, however, that prying Garland loose will be challenging. Vancouver values his personality, compete level, and chemistry inside the room.

Even so, the Canucks have been open about exploring ways to reshape their forward group for financial flexibility, and Boston's interest aligns with that landscape.

With how close the standings have been this season, mid-season trades may come earlier than usual. Boston's injuries and inconsistent offensive stretches make them a logical early mover.

Vancouver, aiming to maximize asset value while staying competitive, represents an intriguing partner.

Nothing is close, but this is no longer background noise. The Bruins have made contact, the Canucks are listening, and the fits make sense on paper.

What remains is finding a price Boston can stomach without sacrificing too much of its future.