By: Ryan Duffy | Follow Me On Twitter @Rduffy26
Once again, the Philadelphia Flyers season has taken a turn for the worst after starting the season 8-4-2 in 14 games. The Flyers had high hopes heading into this season since they added a couple of big names during the offseason, such as Keith Yandle, Cam Atkinson, Ryan Ellis, and Rasmus Ristolainen. Philadelphia has been plagued with injuries throughout their season, which has caused them to go on two extended losing streaks.
Philadelphia dropped ten straight games in mid-November, and they are just coming off a thirteen-game losing streak that ended on Saturday against the Los Angeles Kings. One bright spot on the Flyers has been captain Claude Giroux, who is in the final year of his eight-year $66.2 million contract and will be set to become a UFA at the end of this season. Rumors have been circulating about a potential Giroux trade this season, and one of the potential landing spots could be the Boston Bruins.
Giroux, this season, leads his team in points with 35 (15 goals, 20 assists) in 41 games played. He is also notably reliable at the faceoff dot as he is ranked third in faceoff percentage (60.8%) for centermen who have taken 600 or more faceoffs this season.
The Flyers captain has played his entire career with Philadelphia and has been a cornerstone piece for the organization ever since entering the league in 2008. Giroux (age 34) is closing in on 1,000 career games in the NHL and is expected to hit that milestone just before the trade deadline. He is also second all-time in games played (983 games) and points (892 points) in the Flyers organization. He’s arguably been one of the best players in franchise history.
If the Bruins are looking to make a push to become a contender for the Stanley Cup come playoff time, they will need to upgrade down the middle of the ice. Giroux would be a perfect addition to the Bruins’ top six as he provides elite playmaking ability and high offensive IQ.
Last season, David Krejci was a great fit alongside Taylor Hall due to his vision and passing ability. Giroux is similar to Krejci in the same way, but perhaps he has a higher upside due to his finishing capabilities. Despite being 5’11”, Giroux plays with tenacity and a physical element to his game. He seems to be at his best under high-pressure situations with the puck on his stick.
As the Bruins approach the March 21st trade deadline date, the Bruins’ management will evaluate their biggest needs heading into the playoffs. Giroux currently has a no-move clause as part of his contract, so the decision is ultimately up to him if he wants to waive his no-move.
“We’re at the halfway point; we’re two months to the trade deadline.” Flyer’s general manager Chuck Fletcher said regarding Giroux’s trade status. “I guess the best way to put it is we’ll continue to have conversations, and ultimately a decision will have to be made one way or the other. It’ll be Claude’s decision. “
Giroux’s playing style would be a massive addition to the Bruins’ top-six, but the price tag for such a player will be hefty. Fletcher will likely be asking for a solidified roster player, a prospect or two, and a first-rounder for Giroux. If the Bruins can match the asking price, Giroux’s presence would undoubtedly propel the Bruins to become a deep team and perhaps a Stanley Cup contender.
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