Bruins Weigh Trading Top Prospect Poitras for Roster Upgrade

Boston looking to acquire top-six forward or right-shot defenseman before trade deadline

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The Boston Bruins are shifting gears at the NHL trade deadline, moving from sellers to buyers as they aim to bolster their roster for a playoff push. According to reports, the team is willing to part with former first-round prospect Matthew Poitras in order to land a key piece, either a top-six forward or a right-shot defenseman. Poitras has been surpassed on the depth chart by younger players, making him a valuable trade asset that could help the Bruins acquire a player like St. Louis Blues defenseman Justin Faulk.

Why it matters

The Bruins are currently holding onto the final wildcard spot in the Eastern Conference, and adding a top-six forward or top-four defenseman could be crucial in securing a playoff berth. While Poitras was once considered a potential building block, the team's depth at forward has made him expendable in the right deal.

The details

According to reports, the Bruins are targeting a top-six forward and a right-shot defenseman ahead of the trade deadline. Poitras, a former first-round pick, has fallen down the depth chart and could be used as a trade chip to acquire a player like Faulk from the Blues, who are in a rebuilding phase. The Bruins may also explore a deal for Blues forward Jordan Kyrou, with Poitras again serving as a key piece.

  • The NHL trade deadline is on March 3, 2026.

The players

Matthew Poitras

A former first-round prospect for the Boston Bruins who has been surpassed on the depth chart by younger players.

Justin Faulk

A veteran defenseman for the St. Louis Blues who the Bruins are reportedly interested in acquiring.

Jordan Kyrou

A forward for the St. Louis Blues who the Bruins may explore trading for, with Poitras as a potential trade piece.

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What they’re saying

“We must be pragmatic about our current assets and do what's best for the team this season without compromising the future.”

— Bruins Executive

What’s next

The Bruins will continue to explore trade options leading up to the March 3 deadline, with Poitras as a potential centerpiece in a deal for a top-six forward or right-shot defenseman.

The takeaway

The Bruins' willingness to trade a former first-round pick like Poitras shows their commitment to improving the roster for a playoff push this season, even if it means parting with a promising young player.