The Boston Bruins are pondering the return of West Roxbury native and former Harvard defenseman Jack Rathbone. His recent waiver placement by the Vancouver Canucks, followed by an assignment to the AHL's Abbotsford Canucks, has stirred up NHL discussions.
Sportsnet NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman chimed in on the situation, suggesting that the once-promising union between Rathbone and the Canucks has been fading. He even hinted at the possibility of Rathbone seeking a trade to kickstart his career.
Rathbone, known for his impressive NCAA career with 53 points in 61 games at Harvard, made his pro debut in 2020 with Abbotsford. While showing promise initially, a consistent spot in the Canucks' NHL lineup remained elusive. In 11 NHL games, he contributed a goal and an assist, followed by a less productive AHL stint with five goals and nine assists in 37 games.
While the Bruins already boast a robust roster of left-shot defensemen, the potential addition of Rathbone hinges on General Manager Don Sweeney's decisions. Clearing cap space, possibly through trades involving Matt Grzelcyk or Derek Forbort, could open the door for Rathbone to become an intriguing option for the Bruins' defense corps.
