Half a season in, the Bruins have struggled, especially early on in the season. Playing with only 5 d'men could be a reason, but there was a sense that there were other things that needed to be fixed.
It was widely known that center Ryan Kesler was available for help at other positions. Kevin Shattenkirk, the most productive d'man on the team, had been acquired in the off-season, but was not gelling with some of his teammates. That and some poor results meant a shakeup was in the making for some time.
In the end, a blockbuster deal was reached with the Chicago Blackhawks who after a poor season and a GM change were ready to part ways with some of their high profile players if they got a good package deal involving picks.
The Bruins send center Ryan Kesler, d'man Kevin Shattenkirk, winger Derek Dorsett, d'man Matt Donovan and all three picks (1st, 2nd and 3rd) to Chicago in exchange for winger Marian Hossa, d'man Shea Weber, d'man Mark Stuart and winger Shawn Thornton.
In Hossa we get a seasoned veteran who brings a great two-way game and is a top RW that we've missed.
In Weber we get one of the top d'men in the league that can log big minutes and be used in all game situations.
In Stuart we get a hard working defensive d'man who should fit in well in a bottom pairing role.
In Thornton, well we get a well liked guy who was with the Bruins in the past. Though he won't see much playing time, he'll be a nice depth forward to have.
Only time will tell if we gave up too much since the picks will be the deciding factor. We felt we had a team in place that should at least make the playoffs. This move should help us now, but we're also pleased with the specific players we added today. A lot of character and well-respected individuals.
