The Boston Bruins entered the 2025 free agency period with the clear goal of retooling after a disappointing season that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2016. General Manager Don Sweeney was busy, making a flurry of moves including a trade and numerous signings. The focus seemed to be on adding depth and physicality to the bottom six forwards, but the moves have left some questioning whether the Bruins have done enough to address their primary need: increased offensive production.
Signings and Acquisitions
The Bruins' most notable signing was Tanner Jeannot, a 27-year-old winger, to a five-year, $17 million contract. Jeannot is known for his physicality and hitting ability, but his offensive output has been inconsistent. He had a breakout season in 2021-22 with 24 goals for the Nashville Predators but has not come close to that production since. Some analysts question the length and value of the contract, suggesting Jeannot is, at best, a third-line player.
Boston also brought back a familiar face in Sean Kuraly, signing the veteran forward to a two-year deal with an average annual value of $1.85 million. Kuraly, who previously played for the Bruins for five seasons, is known for his speed, energy, and surprising knack for scoring important goals in the playoffs. Other forward signings include Michael Eyssimont (two years, $1.45 million AAV), Matěj Blümel (one year, $875,000 AAV), and Alex Steeves (one year, $850,000 AAV). These additions further bolster the Bruins' depth at forward.
In addition to the free agent signings, the Bruins traded for Viktor Arvidsson from the Edmonton Oilers, giving up a 2027 fifth-round pick. Arvidsson, a veteran winger, has a history of scoring, but his production dipped last season with the Oilers.
The Bruins also signed defenseman Jordan Harris. Furthermore, they extended contracts with several players, including Mason Lohrei (two years, $3.2 million AAV), Morgan Geekie (six years, $5.5 million AAV), and Henri Jokiharju (three years, $3 million AAV).
Grading the Moves
The Bruins' free agency moves have been met with mixed reviews. Some observers feel that Sweeney has addressed the need to make the team tougher to play against. General manager Don Sweeney expressed confidence that the new additions would bring "juice" back to the Bruins and create a more competitive team.
However, a common criticism is that the Bruins have overemphasized depth signings without addressing their lack of high-end offensive talent. The team struggled to score last season, and the additions of Jeannot, Kuraly, and others are unlikely to significantly improve their offensive output. Some argue that the Bruins should have targeted players like Nikolaj Ehlers or Brock Boeser, who remain unsigned.
Additionally, the Bruins' commitment to Jeannot, in particular, has been questioned, with some suggesting that the term and money could have been better allocated. With limited cap space remaining, it's unclear whether the Bruins have done enough to compete in the competitive Atlantic Division.
Overall
The Boston Bruins' 2025 free agency moves can be described as a mixed bag. While they have added depth and physicality, they have not adequately addressed their need for more offensive firepower. The signing of Tanner Jeannot is particularly questionable, and it remains to be seen whether the Bruins have done enough to return to the playoffs in 2026. Whether new head coach Marco Sturm can unlock the scoring touch of the new acquisitions remains to be seen.
