As the 2023 NHL offseason unfolds, the Boston Bruins are preparing for significant changes to their roster. Despite their remarkable President Trophy-winning season with a record-setting 135 points, the team faces the reality of key veterans and assets potentially departing.
One of those veterans is Nick Foligno, who will become an unrestricted free agent this summer. Foligno's leadership and gritty presence were valuable to the Bruins in the 2022-23 season, but his return is uncertain.
If Foligno does not rejoin the team, Bruins General Manager Don Sweeney will be tasked with finding a suitable replacement. However, replacing such a strong locker room presence will not be an easy feat.
One potential option to fill the void left by Foligno is Washington Capitals forward Conor Sheary. The 31-year-old unrestricted free agent spent the last three seasons with the Capitals and could provide excellent value to the Bruins' bottom six. With the team aiming to save money, Sheary could potentially be signed to a team-friendly deal.
In the previous season, Sheary tallied 37 points, including 15 goals and 22 assists, while playing in all 82 games for the Capitals. His versatility would make him a valuable addition to the Bruins' third or fourth line under the guidance of head coach Jim Montgomery.
