The Boston Bruins on Friday traded away two of their top players and made it clear to the fans that there are big changes coming to the franchise.
Coming off a 96-point season that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2007, the Bruins decided it was time to make some changes. They dealt defenseman Dougie Hamilton to the Flames for three draft picks, including the Nos. 15, 45 and 52 in the 2015 draft. Hamilton, who was the No. 9 overall pick in the 2011 draft, had 42 points for the Bruins last season, but he is set for a hefty pay increase.
After dealing Hamilton, the Bruins then traded fan favorite Milan Lucic to the Kings for No. 13 pick, as well as goalie Martin Jones and prospect Colin Miller. Lucic, a homegrown product who joined the Bruins in the 2007-08 season at 19 years old, was one of the top scorers for Boston the past eight seasons. He helped the B’s reach the Cup Finals twice, producing one win. He scored 12 goals during the Bruins’ two playoff runs that saw them reach the Stanley Cup Finals. The three-time All-Star only produced 44 points in 81 games last season, which probably left the Bruins feeling he was somewhat expendable.
Thanks to the Bruins organization for the last 8 years of my life and most of all thank you fans. I will miss you dearly. #bostonstrong
— Milan Lucic (@MilanLucicCFC17) June 26, 2015
As many of you know, Del and I are both Bruins fans and will really miss Lucic. He was a great player for the franchise.
The Bruins went from not having any first-round draft picks to having three consecutive ones. If you’re going to rebuild, that’s the way to do it.
