Bruins after dark

Boston Bruins lineup ideas, future roster outlook, 2025-26 forward depth, and offseason moves headline key questions for team planning.

The Boston Bruins are heading into the 2025-26 season with uncertainty swirling around their future but also potential bubbling just beneath the surface.

With roster shakeups expected and pressure building to deliver results after missing the playoffs, fans are dreaming up the best possible version of the Bruins’ forward lines — and this projection hits a sweet spot between realistic and bold.

Here’s a look at what I’d like to see Boston roll out next season — a blend of proven veterans, high-upside youth, and strategic additions.

1st Line: Geekie – Zacha – Pastrnak

Morgan Geekie’s development this season was one of the few bright spots, and placing him alongside Pavel Zacha and David Pastrnak gives Boston a line with size, skill, and scoring touch.

Zacha’s ability to play center or wing offers flexibility, and Pastrnak’s elite offensive instincts speak for themselves.

If Geekie continues to grow, this trio could easily drive top-line matchups.

2nd Line: X – Lindholm – Boeser

Yes, it’s ambitious, with Elias Lindholm potentially re-signing, adding a sniper like Brock Boeser via trade or free agency would round out a high-end two-way second line.

Boeser’s release and Lindholm’s playmaking create a natural pairing, while Marchand’s tenacity continues to set the tone.

3rd Line: Minten – Poitras – Mittelstadt

Fraser Minten and Matthew Poitras — one of the team’s most promising young centers — and a skilled two-way pivot like Casey Mittelstadt adds pace and puck support.

Mittelstadt showed flashes with Buffalo and Colorado; Boston could give him a full-time role in a competitive middle-six unit.

4th Line: Beecher – Kastelic – Koepke

This line is all about energy and defensive matchups.

John Beecher offers speed and penalty-killing value, Mark Kastelic is a rugged center with upside, and Taylor Koepke provides versatility as a depth winger.

The trio could anchor a reliable shutdown line with offensive upside in transition.

Extra Forward: Khusnutdinov

Keep a close eye on Marat Khusnutdinov.

The Russian center has dynamic skating ability and elite edgework.

He may start in the AHL, but don’t be surprised if he pushes for NHL minutes by midseason.

It’s possible to do both.

The key will be striking in free agency and retaining or acquiring the right veterans to support their young core, led by Pastrnak and Poitras.

This projection isn’t just wishful thinking — it’s a roadmap that blends talent, cap strategy, and long-term development.

The Bruins have tools to bounce back.

It’s time to use them.