1100-game veteran Blake Wheeler and Kailer Yamamoto linked to Stanley Cup contender
A new report out of Boston links the Bruins to veteran NHL forward Blake Wheeler for the 2024-25 season.
With the NHL season just around the corner, teams are finalizing their rosters. The Boston Bruins are reportedly considering adding two experienced players, Blake Wheeler and Kailer Yamamoto, according to Shawn Hutcheon.
The Bruins have lost several key forwards over the past couple of seasons due to retirements and free agency, including Patrice Bergeron, David Krejci, and Jake DeBrusk.
As the Bruins explore signing Wheeler and Yamamoto, the question is whether these veterans can help bolster their Stanley Cup aspirations.
Both Wheeler and Yamamoto come with risks that the Bruins will need to consider.
Kailer Yamamoto, a first-round pick in the 2017 NHL Entry Draft, was expected to be a dynamic, goal-scoring winger. However, standing at just 5'8", his effectiveness in the NHL has been inconsistent. While he's had moments as a 20-goal scorer in a middle-six role for the Edmonton Oilers, his overall production has often fallen short, and he hasn't been able to contribute in other areas to move up the lineup.
Blake Wheeler's risks are different but equally concerning. When healthy, Wheeler has been one of the NHL's top power forwards, consistently posting 50-point seasons from 2011-12 to 2022-23. However, his production dropped significantly last season with the New York Rangers, where he only managed 21 points. If the Bruins believe they can help the 37-year-old return to form, he could be a valuable addition this late in free agency.
If the Bruins sign Wheeler and Yamamoto to player tryouts, expect them to see preseason action. If either player can show flashes of their past success, the Bruins, who are still in need of depth, should strongly consider signing them.
Source: Elite ProspectsBlake Wheeler Stats
Source: Elite ProspectsKailer Yamamoto Stats
| POLL | ||
20 AOUT | 45 ANSWERS 1100-game veteran Blake Wheeler and Kailer Yamamoto linked to Stanley Cup contender Should the Boston Bruins sign Blake Wheeler to a contract for the 2024-25 season? | ||
| Yes | 23 | 51.1 % |
| No | 22 | 48.9 % |
| List of polls | ||
