Yahoo Sports Bruins Have Interesting Target In Islanders Forward
The Boston Bruins have had an eventful offseason. The Original Six club made some notable additions during the summer, adding Elias Lindholm, Nikita Zadorov, Max Jones, Joonas Korpisalo, Mark Kastelic, and more. However, they also lost some players on the wing, with players like Jake DeBrusk, Danton Heinen, James van Riemsdyk, and Pat Maroon all no longer on the roster.
Related: Bruins Have Roster to Win Atlantic Division
While the Bruins have done a good job finding definite replacements for their bottom six, it is clear that they have a spot to fight for in their middle six. Prospects like Fabian Lysell, Georgii Merkulov, and Trevor Kuntar are among the players who are expected to compete for NHL jobs because of it. However, it also would not hurt for the Bruins to add a depth player with experience to their roster in case their youngsters end up not being ready.
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One player who could be worth keeping an eye on because of this is New York Islanders forward Oliver Wahlstrom.
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While Wahlstrom agreed to a one-year, $1 million contract with the Islanders earlier this offseason, his future with the Metropolitan Division club is far from set in stone. When observing the Islanders' roster, Wahlstrom appears to be the odd man out. During this past season, he was scratched several times due to his struggles, including for the entirety of the playoffs. Thus, a change of scenery may be needed for the Portland, Maine native.
The Athletic's Arthur Staple noted that for Wahlstrom to get a fresh start, it would likely be through the waiver wire, as GM Lou Lamoriello has been unhappy with the trade offers for the former top prospect. Thus, if Wahlstrom finds his way on the waiver wire after training camp, the Bruins should consider taking a flier on the youngster.
While Wahlstrom is coming off a down season (six points in 32 games), he has shown in the past that he has the potential to be a decent top-nine forward. For example, just back in the 2022-23 season, the 2018 first-round pick posted seven goals and 16 points in 35 games. He also had 12 goals and 21 points in 44 games for the Islanders in 2020-21.
Ultimately, with the Bruins needing a bit more forward depth, it could be worthwhile for them to take a shot on a former top prospect like Wahlstrom. Boston has found success in recent years, helping newcomers take that next step, and at just 24 years old, Wahlstrom still can.
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