Boston Bruins could reunite with former fan favorite after Penguins place him on waivers

According to NHL insider Elliotte Friedman, the Pittsburgh Penguins placed former Bruins forward Danton Heinen on waivers, making him available to be claimed at no trade cost.

For a Bruins team that feels short a few bodies right now, that's at least worth a hard look.

Heinen is not going to save a season by himself, but he's the kind of depth forward who can stabilize a lineup when it starts to fray. Bruins fans remember the 2014 draft pick as a smart, low-drama player who could slide up and down the lineup without losing his structure.

Boston is currently dealing with injuries and struggling to find consistent five-on-five execution. When you're shorthanded and you're losing, sometimes the best move is simply adding a dependable pro who knows the organization and doesn't need a long runway.

The appeal is obvious. A waiver claim would let the Bruins add a familiar winger without giving up picks or prospects, and it would create more options for Marco Sturm as he tries to rebuild lines and regain rhythm.

Heinen isn't a flashy scorer, but he can kill penalties, play responsibly, and keep shifts from turning into chaos. Right now, Boston could use that.

Claiming Heinen means committing a contract spot and potentially pushing another depth player out. Still, if the Bruins believe they need a jolt of reliable NHL minutes, this is as low risk as it gets.

The Bruins won't fix their problems with one waiver claim, but they can give themselves a better chance to stop the bleeding.

With Heinen available for free, Boston at least has an option sitting right there.