Bruins Weigh Offers for Defenseman Peeke Amid Playoff Push

Boston considers trading pending free agent to bolster prospect pool while maintaining playoff contention.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The Boston Bruins are open to trading defenseman Andrew Peeke, a pending unrestricted free agent, as they balance their playoff hopes with the opportunity to acquire future assets and strengthen their prospect pool. Peeke has emerged as a key contributor on Boston's second defensive pairing this season, but with his contract expiring, the team is fielding offers that could provide draft capital and developmental depth.

Why it matters

The Bruins' potential willingness to trade Peeke underscores their effort to balance immediate competitiveness with long-term roster building. Unlike last year's aggressive teardown, the team aims to remain focused on their playoff trajectory while strategically managing expiring contracts and prospect assets.

The details

Andrew Peeke, acquired from the Columbus Blue Jackets at the 2023 trade deadline, has emerged as a reliable shutdown defenseman for the Bruins this season. He is averaging over 19 minutes per game, leading the team with 101 blocked shots and ranking seventh in hits with 67. However, with his contract expiring, the Bruins are considering offers that could bolster their prospect pool and future draft capital. The team appears less inclined to move pending free agent Viktor Arvidsson, who has contributed 14 goals and 28 points in 45 games as a key member of the second line.

  • The Bruins are approaching the NHL trade deadline cautiously, unlike last year's major roster overhaul.
  • Peeke's contract status is creating trade possibilities as he is a pending unrestricted free agent.

The players

Andrew Peeke

A defenseman for the Boston Bruins who has emerged as a key contributor on the team's second defensive pairing this season, averaging over 19 minutes per game and leading the team in blocked shots.

Viktor Arvidsson

A winger for the Boston Bruins who plays a crucial role on the team's second line, contributing 14 goals and 28 points in 45 games this season.

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What they’re saying

“would not be as quick to break up their second line if the return is for a mid- to late-round selection”

— Fluto Shinzawa, The Athletic (The Athletic)

What’s next

The outcome of these trade discussions could influence the team's defensive structure and their ability to acquire future-oriented talent, making Peeke's availability a significant factor in the Bruins' deadline plans.

The takeaway

The Bruins' potential trade of Andrew Peeke highlights their strategic approach to balancing their immediate playoff aspirations with the need to build for the future, as they aim to maintain their competitiveness while also strengthening their prospect pool and draft capital.