NHL trade rumors: Top 3 teams that should trade for Chris Kreider

3. Boston Bruins

Project deadline cap space: $1,744,167 (as of Jan. 15)

Kreider would be a great addition for the Boston Bruins. Though Tyler Toffoli is apparently the player they really like, I think Kreider would be a better fit for the Bruins. He’s a better fit in their system and he’s a bit tougher than Toffoli. Kreider’s more willing to go to the net and better at creating chaos around the crease, which something the Bruins always like to do.

Recently, Ryan Darnley of Causeway Crowd, FanSided’s Bruins blog, had this to say about Kreider.

"He’s a Massachusetts native and although home state or home town doesn’t always mean anything; there has been a certain trend in recent seasons to bring players back to the state; Charlie Coyle being the obvious name that springs to mind."

Again, it’s not like the Bruins only target players from Massachusetts. But it’s a bit of an interesting trend. They got Coyle last year at the trade deadline, who was born in East Weymouth and went to Boston University. Defenseman Matt Grzelcyk was born in Charlestown and also went to Boston University. Fellow blueliner Charlie McAvoy went to Boston University as well. Kreider went to Boston College and was born in Boxford.

Kreider would fit nicely on the Bruins second line. He’d give them a unique physical presence there. That line could really use someone who can create chaos and get dirty around the crease. Kreider’s a perfect fit in that role.

Furthermore, he has plenty of experience in the postseason. Kreider’s played nearly an extra full 82 games in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Toffoli would be a very nice backup option, but I think Kreider’s the guy who the Bruins should be looking at.