If Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci don't return to the Boston Bruins next season, the team will need to find suitable replacements. The question arises: who will step up, and at what cost?
It wouldn't be surprising if goaltender Jeremy Swayman, seeks a more substantial contract but could potentially assist the team next season and accept an overpaid extension after that (e.g., a 4-year, $5 million per year extension).
Considering various cap scenarios, if the Bruins traded Matt Grzelcyk and Mike Reilly, then re-signed Bergeron and Krejci to a one-year deal, and convinced Swayman to agree to a one-year bridge deal, the team would have approximately $4 million remaining to acquire another forward and two defensemen.
This strategic maneuvering could provide the Bruins with the flexibility and resources needed to strengthen their roster for the upcoming season.