Boston Bruins forward Pavel Zacha has been a popular name in the rumor mill this off-season. This was also the case nearing the 2025 NHL trade deadline, and it is understandable with the Bruins being in the middle of a retool. If the Bruins traded him, he undoubtedly could get them a nice return, as he is a proven top-six forward with a great contract.
Yet, if the Bruins decided to trade Zacha, it would certainly come with plenty of risk. Zacha is easily one of their top forwards, and moving him would create a significant hole in their lineup. Furthermore, with the Bruins hoping to be more competitive in 2025-26, trading Zacha would only create another obstacle for them to overcome on that front.
Zacha has also demonstrated that he works very well on a line with Bruins superstar and fellow Czech David Pastrnak. With Pastrnak being the Bruins' best player, taking away one of his top offensive weapons could also come with some problems.
Ultimately, if the Bruins truly want to bounce back in 2025-26, it would make more sense for them to keep Zacha for the start of the season. However, if the Bruins are once again among the worst teams in the NHL next campaign, that is where a Zacha trade may make the most sense.