Bruins after dark

With Brandon Carlo traded to Toronto, the Bruins are eyeing Calgary’s Rasmus Andersson as a right-shot fix for their top four, special teams, and leadership void on the back end.

Bruins zero in on a major defensive need after deadline shakeup

The moment Brandon Carlo was sent to the Maple Leafs, the Bruins knew they’d have to find someone who could handle big minutes on the right side.

They didn’t just lose a shutdown guy—they lost one of their most dependable blueliners.

The search to replace him is underway, and all signs point west.

Rasmus Andersson may be exactly what Boston needs.

Calgary’s trade history suggests Andersson could be next out

Andersson, 28, is entering the final season of his deal.

Calgary’s front office has made a habit of moving pending UFAs if there’s no long-term commitment in sight.

Over the past year alone, they’ve dealt Chris Tanev, Noah Hanifin, Elias Lindholm, and Nikita Zadorov under that very approach.

It wouldn’t be surprising if Andersson follows the same path—and if he does, the Bruins should be at the front of the line.

A natural fit: Andersson brings stability, offense, and leadership

On paper and in practice, Andersson is a great match for Boston. He can play in all situations, hold down top-four minutes, and contribute on the power play.

He’s also known as a calming voice in the room—something the Bruins always value.

With a $4.55 million cap hit, he’s cost-effective compared to others with similar upside.

Sliding into a pairing alongside Charlie McAvoy would immediately give Boston one of the stronger right-side duos in the league.

His numbers back it up—Andersson is more than just reliable 

This season, Andersson appeared in 81 games and finished with 11 goals, 31 points, and 196 blocked shots. That alone is solid—but the past tells an even clearer story. He posted 50 points in 2021-22 and followed up with 49 in 2022-23.

Those are big numbers from the blue line, and they show just how much he could elevate Boston’s offensive output from the back end.

With flexibility and a hole on defense, Boston’s front office is positioned to make a move. Andersson gives them a way to get better now, without mortgaging the future.

If Calgary decides he’s available, the Bruins should waste no time.

This isn’t just a depth add—it’s a top-four solution with proven impact.