The Boston Bruins are looking for some upgrades ahead of the 2026 NHL trade deadline. Boston holds the final wild card spot in the Eastern Conference with 71 points. However, the Bruins have several needs, such as a top-4 right-shot defenseman and options to improve their blue line and offensive depth.
Below, we'll break down the five best trade targets for Boston ahead of the 2026 NHL trade deadline!
Robert Thomas, St. Louis Blues
Robert Thomas would give Boston an incredible update at the center position. With prospects like Mathieu Poitras and Dean Letourneau, the St. Louis Blues will be able to get the breakthrough they are looking for with Thomas. That would be a steep price, but the Blues center would look good in Bruins colors.
Connor Garland, Vancouver Canucks
Connor Garland will give Boston more offensive depth moving forward. The Vancouver Canucks are the worst team in the NHL and are set to trade most of their roster. Attack isn't as big a need as defence, but the Canucks forward would be a great addition moving forward.
Colton Parayko, St. Louis Blues
Colton Parayko is an ideal target for the Bruins before Friday's deadline. Boston needs a top-4 right-shot defenseman, and Parayko would be an excellent replacement for former Bruin Brandon Carlo. The St. Louis defenseman is estimated to have a lot of suitors, but the price would be reasonable.
McKenzie Weegar, Calgary Flames
McKenzie Weegar would be a great pick this season, but there are some negative factors in the future. Weegar is 32 years old and is under contract for the 2030-31 season with a $6.25 million cap hit. The Calgary Flames defenseman is good enough to anchor the Bruins' defence, and although his play may decline in the coming years, this would be a multi-year solution.
Justin Faulk, St. Louis Blues
Justin Faulk continues the trend of strong St. Louis options for Boston ahead of the NHL trade deadline. Faulk has a strong 2025-26 NHL season, providing strong offense and defense. The Blues defenseman is arguably the best option for the Bruins, and can take this team to the next level moving forward.
READ MORE: St. Louis Blues could trade Robert Thomas, 5 best landing spots including Boston Bruins
