The Boston Bruins find themselves in an entirely different position at the 2024 NHL trade deadline compared to last season, largely due to their improved performance this year. Previously near the bottom of the Eastern Conference after trading longtime star Brad Marchand to the Florida Panthers, the Bruins currently hold the second wild card spot, a development highlighted by forward Morgan Geekie in comments shared by Bruins beat writer Bridgette Proulx. The team’s stronger standing means their strategy at the trade deadline may shift toward reinforcement rather than rebuilding.
Team Progress Reflects Shift in Trade Deadline Approach
Morgan Geekie described the contrast with last season as almost complete reversal, stating,
“It kind of feels polar opposite, to be honest. I think this group’s done a great job of kind of putting ourselves in the position to stand pat or add guys, whatever they see fit,”
as reported by Bridgette Proulx. With a record of 33-20-5 and 71 points, the Bruins are currently four points ahead of the Washington Capitals for the final wild card slot, which positions them as potential buyers or steadies, rather than sellers, at the deadline.
Key Players Fueling Bruins’ Improved Results
The Bruins’ resurgence is driven by standout performances from David Pastrnak and Morgan Geekie. Pastrnak leads the team with 72 points, while Geekie tops the Bruins with 33 goals and ranks second with 55 total points. Their contributions have helped Boston rank sixth in goals scored, fourth in shooting percentage, and third in power play efficiency. This success has generated a more positive and confident atmosphere within the locker room.
Growing Confidence Shapes Team Outlook
Reflecting on the team’s mindset, Geekie noted,
“It’s a results-driven business, and I think for us, it’s just kind of a testament to what we’ve done all year and just continue to build. So you can kind of feel it every game, we know we give ourselves a chance to win, regardless of who we’re playing. So, it’s a lot more fun, for sure,”
according to Bridgette Proulx. This attitude of resilience and belief marks a stark departure from last season’s challenges.
Next Steps as Bruins Continue Post-Olympic Push
Following a strong finish to the Olympic break with a 4-2 victory over the Columbus Blue Jackets, the Bruins prepare to face the Philadelphia Flyers as they aim to maintain momentum. Their improved position in the standings and evolving team dynamics will play key roles as the trade deadline approaches, with the Bruins poised to either strengthen their roster or hold steady in pursuit of a playoff run.
Geekie on how different this week feels compared to the week before the trade deadline last season:
"It kind of feels polar opposite to be honest. I think this group's done a great job of kind of putting ourselves in the position to stand pat or add guys, whatever they see… pic.twitter.com/Nhm0eIlzmX
— Bridgette Proulx (@bridgetteproulx) February 27, 2026
