Bruins Expected To ‘Improve’ Roster Through Trade After Not Landing Rasmus Andersson

The Boston Bruins had a chance to acquire Calgary Flames star defenseman Rasmus Andersson, but an extension wasn’t agreed to.

With the Bruins unable to get an extension done, Calgary ended up trading Andersson to the Vegas Golden Knights. Although Boston missed out on the star defenseman, the interest signaled the Bruins are looking to improve their roster, according to Fluto Shinzawa of The Athletic.

“The Bruins’ pursuit signals Sweeney is looking to improve the franchise for today and tomorrow — within reason,” Shinzawa wrote on Monday. “He has already stocked a 2026 fourth-rounder from the Anaheim Ducks for Jeffrey Viel.

“More movement may be coming, as Sweeney may not restrict himself from buying and selling at the same time.”

With Boston showing interest in Andersson, Shinzawa believes it proves the Bruins are looking to improve their roster before the March 6 trade deadline and look to be a playoff team this season.

“Making the playoffs is no guarantee,” Shinzawa added. “It is a possibility, though, especially with some help.”

The Bruins are 28-19-2 and are holding onto the top wild card spot. Boston is 8-1-1 in its last 10 games.

The Bruins return to the ice on Tuesday on the road to play the Dallas Stars at 7:30 p.m. ET before hosting the Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday.