Bruins Reportedly Interested in Devils Defensemen Ahead of Trade Deadline
The Boston Bruins have reportedly added a couple more names to their trade deadline target list as they look to strengthen their roster. With the NHL trade deadline set for March 6, Boston is expected to make at least one or two moves. The team is currently clinging to the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, prompting general manager Don Sweeney to search for upgrades as the regular season winds down.
Like many teams around the league, Boston’s top priority is acquiring a right-handed defenseman. St. Louis Blues veteran Justin Faulk has been linked to the Bruins for several weeks, and according to RG’s James Murphy, he remains one of Sweeney’s main targets. However, multiple teams are also pursuing the Blues defenseman, making a deal far from certain.
Faulk is not the only blue-liner on Boston’s radar. Other potential options include Braden Schneider and Rasmus Ristolainen. In addition, Murphy reports that the Bruins have held discussions with the New Jersey Devils regarding defensemen Simon Nemec and Johnathan Kovacevic.
On March 4, The Athletic’s Pierre LeBrun noted that the Devils are open to hearing offers for Nemec. The 22-year-old, who was selected second overall in the 2022 NHL Draft, has yet to fully reach his potential but is still considered a promising young defenseman. Both Nemec and Kovacevic play on the right side of the defensive pairings.
Nemec Seen as the More Attractive Option
Among the two Devils defensemen, Nemec could be the more appealing fit for Boston. After star defenseman Charlie McAvoy, there is a noticeable drop in talent on the Bruins’ right side. Currently, Mason Lohrei and Henri Jokiharju have been filling those roles, though Lohrei could potentially be moved in a trade.
The Bruins also have Andrew Peeke as a right-shot defenseman, but Locked on Bruins host Ian McLaren has suggested the team could move the veteran before the deadline. Boston’s defensive depth on the right side currently consists of several players who have yet to stand out.
Kovacevic could still be an intriguing option. The 6-foot-5 defenseman, known for his physical play, signed a five-year contract extension with New Jersey worth $20 million ($4 million AAV) in March 2025. However, he has missed most of the 2025–26 season while recovering from knee surgery he underwent during the offseason.
Bruins Have Resources to Make a Deal
Both Devils defensemen would fit into Sweeney’s long-term roster plans. The Bruins’ front office has indicated a preference for players around the same age range as core pieces such as David Pastrnak (29), Jeremy Swayman (27), and McAvoy (28). Nemec is 22, while Kovacevic is 28. Schneider would also fit this timeline, though Faulk and Ristolainen are both over 30.
Sweeney has positioned Boston well to make a significant move before the deadline. The Bruins currently hold multiple high-value draft picks, including four first-round selections over the next two drafts. Additionally, the team has financial flexibility, with nearly $5 million in available salary cap space, according to PuckPedia.
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