The last five games have been perfectly indicative of the nature of this current Boston Bruins group.
They managed a couple of tough victories over elite NHL teams, first the Detroit Red Wings then the Pittsburgh Penguins, but sandwiched between were three losses to bad and/or mediocre squads, highlighted by a dismal effort against the worst team in the Eastern Conference, the Carolina Hurricanes.
They've long been part of the NHL rumor mill and said to be seeking a trade for a forward to provide scoring depth. They've been linked to the likes of Arizona's Antoine Vermette, St. Louis' T.J. Oshie and even Edmonton's Taylor Hall.
"Well, Chiarelli has been on the phone. He's been very active, in fact, for the past few months," said TSN Insider Darren Dreger on NBCSN Wednesday night, as transcribed by NicholsOnHockey.com. "It's no secret. He can see the holes in his lineup. He wants to improve the areas that need improving."
Now, TheFourthPeriod.com is suggesting that the Bruins and desperate-to-deal GM Peter Chiarelli could still be looking to the Coyotes for a lineup lift, but points to stud blueliner Keith Yandle, not Vermette, as the much sought after prize.
"The Arizona Coyotes and Boston Bruins have been engaged in trade discussions lately, with defenseman Keith Yandle being a possible target," TFP writes.
"Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli has expressed interest in Vermette and Yandle, though it's believed the conversation has shifted primarily to Yandle."
Yandle is a possession and pace-pushing defenseman with a strong two-way game and immense offensive skill. In 39 games this season he has four goals and 22 assists.
Arizona GM Don Maloney has fielded calls on Yandle for a couple of years now, but with the team stuck in the Western Conference basement, could finally be ready to actually move the high-quality defender - for a premium price that includes picks and "young, NHL-ready talent."
