Boston Bruins announce an official roster move after acquiring a 24-year-old defenseman
Photo credit: Pro Hockey Rumors
The Bruins took the next step to stabilize their blue line Tuesday, making an official roster move after adding new defensive depth.
Following the waiver claim of defenseman Vladislav Kolyachonok from the Dallas Stars, Bruins general manager Don Sweeney confirmed that defenseman Jonathan Aspirot has been placed on injured reserve.
Aspirot's injury dates back to Thursday against the Winnipeg Jets, when he exited the game and did not return. The move allows Boston to create roster flexibility without rushing his recovery.
Kolyachonok, 24, arrives as a low-risk depth addition with legitimate NHL experience. He appeared in 11 games with Dallas this season, producing one goal and two assists while averaging 12 minutes and 37 seconds of ice time.
The Minsk, Belarus, native stands 6-foot-2 and weighs 198 pounds, bringing size and mobility to a Bruins defense that has been stretched thin by injuries.
Originally selected 52nd overall by the Florida Panthers in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft, Kolyachonok has skated in 85 career NHL games across Dallas, Pittsburgh, Utah, and Arizona, recording five goals and 12 assists.
Boston's interest in him reflects a need for puck movement and depth rather than a splash acquisition.
Aspirot's placement on injured reserve marks a pause in what had been an encouraging stretch for the 26-year-old defender.
He appeared in 19 games with Boston this season, scoring one goal and establishing himself as a reliable, physical presence.
Aspirot has also played five games with Providence this season and brings extensive AHL experience, totaling 297 career games with Providence, Calgary, and Belleville.
Bruins prioritize flexibility as injuries mount
Kolyachonok gives the coaching staff another left shot option who can move the puck and potentially play either side if needed.
His arrival also introduces internal competition, something Boston values, particularly with younger defensemen still settling into NHL roles.
Placing Aspirot on injured reserve signals caution, not concern, allowing time for proper recovery.
This is not a headline-grabbing transaction, but it is the type of move that keeps a season from slipping sideways.
| POLL | ||
DECEMBRE 16 | 109 ANSWERS Boston Bruins announce an official roster move after acquiring a 24-year-old defenseman Do you think Vladislav Kolyachonok is going to become a full-time defenseman for the Boston Bruins? | ||
| Yes | 39 | 35.8 % |
| No | 17 | 15.6 % |
| Maybe | 32 | 29.4 % |
| He has potential | 21 | 19.3 % |
| List of polls | ||