Bruins To Trade For Veteran Forward As…

Boston Bruins to Start Contract Talks with Veteran Forward.

Danton Heinen, an NHL forward, was without a contract at the start of last season and hoping to restart his career. An old acquaintance contacted and offered a professional tryout to the left wing who was not on the squad at the moment. The Boston Bruins brought back the 2014 fourth-round draft pick following stints with Anaheim and Pittsburgh, citing their familiarity with the Langley, British Columbia native. There were no assurances, but Heinen had limited options. From then, Heinen seized the opportunity and blossomed, eventually playing minutes on the Bruins’ top line.

In 74 games, Heinen scored 17 goals and assisted 19 times, proving to be the dynamic forward the Bruins remembered. On a one-year contract worth $775,000, the 6-foot-1, 190-pound wing contributed to the penalty kill and got time in the lineup. Heinen became one of the most valuable signings of the offseason. Now it’s time to assess how important Heinen is to Boston.

According to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period, the Bruins will contact Heinen’s camp this week to begin contract negotiations. The Bruins’ level of commitment to Heinen remains to be determined, but the forward has certainly earned a raise. The sole negative was Heinen’s playoff performance, which included only one assist and ten shots on goal in eight games. One would have to imagine Heinen will seek a multi-year contract.

With nine free agents to choose from, a potential hefty contract for goalkeeper Jeremy Swayman, and the fate of Linus Ullmark in doubt, General Manager Don Sweeney has a busy summer ahead of him. With Heinen likely being the first order of business, Sweeney cannot afford to make a mistake and overpay for a player who showed minimal interest last offseason. The cap may be a two-year deal for the soon-to-be 29-year-old worth around $2 million per season.

The absence of left wings on the squad is undoubtedly advantageous to Heinen. After skipper Brad Marchand, there’s not much left. Heinen’s versatility and experience contribute to its value. Expect the Bruins to finalize a deal shortly that will benefit both parties.