The Boston Bruins are reportedly looking to augment their top-six forward group and have identified Nick Schmaltz of the Utah Mammoth as a potential trade target. Schmaltz, a consistently productive offensive player, is coming off a season where he tallied 20 goals and 43 assists for a total of 63 points in 82 games.
Bruins general manager Don Sweeney has been actively seeking to add scoring depth to the team's forward ranks. Schmaltz's ability to play multiple positions would be a valuable asset for the Bruins, who are aiming to improve their offensive output. His playmaking skills could also provide a boost to Boston's power play.
To acquire Schmaltz, the Bruins would likely need to shed some salary to accommodate his $5.85 million cap hit, which runs through the 2025-26 season. Potential trade pieces could include players with expiring contracts or those who haven't quite fit into the Bruins' long-term plans.
The Utah Mammoth may be willing to move Schmaltz if they are not planning to re-sign him, seeking a return that better aligns with their future. This could involve draft picks, prospects, or players who fit their long-term vision.
Interestingly, the Bruins and Mammoth have also been linked in rumors surrounding Bruins forward Pavel Zacha. The Mammoth are reportedly one of the teams interested in acquiring Zacha, who has been a key forward for the Bruins over the past few seasons. Zacha, 28, has two years remaining on his contract with an average annual value of $4.75 million and possesses an eight-team no-trade clause.
If the Mammoth were to acquire Zacha, he would likely slot into a third-line center role behind Logan Cooley and Barrett Hayton. However, his versatility could also allow him to play on the second line.
Whether the Bruins acquire Schmaltz or trade Zacha to Utah, it's clear that both teams are exploring ways to improve their rosters. These potential moves could reshape the Bruins' forward group and impact their competitiveness in the upcoming season.