By: Chad Jones | Follow me on Twitter/X @ShutUpChadJones
As the NHL offseason rolls on, the Boston Bruins core roster for the 2026-2027 season is starting to take shape. While there are still possible moves to be made and training camp competitions can always shake up a position or two, Boston’s coaching staff can already be looking into possible line combinations.
Bruins head coach Marco Sturm will have some decisions to make once the season gets underway. The lines will certainly differ from the 2025-2026 squad.
First Line
With the acquisition of JJ Peterka and Pavel Zacha still residing on Boston’s roster going into the final year of his contract, those two forwards would be a natural fit on the first line with David Pastrnak. Zacha and Pastrnak have shown chemistry before, and Peterka’s offensive repertoire could prove profitable playing with the two Czech skaters.
This combination has the chance to grow into a very dynamic, offensive-focused line. The three skaters could mesh incredibly well together and consistently drive Boston’s attack.
However, this line could prove too top-heavy, and there are options to spread the offense around. But this trio would make a lot of sense as Boston’s top line at the start of the season.
Second Line
With Viktor Arvidsson now in Detroit, the Bruins will have to incorporate a new look for this line. Morgan Geekie showed flexibility by producing with different linemates last year, so he would fit in well here to start the season.
Fraser Minten showed a nice scoring touch last season and was terrific in all three zones. He could slide in nicely to the role of second-line center after playing much of last year on the third line.
The battle for the last top six spot is up for grabs. James Hagens has the offensive skill set but may not be ready for those NHL minutes. Casey Mittelstadt enjoyed a solid campaign last year. Marat Khusnutdinov showed his value playing up and down the lineup.
If Hagens plays well enough in camp and the preseason, it could be quite exciting for the organization to have him in a top six role to start his first full season. If he proves not to be ready at this stage, Mittelstadt should fit in well early on.
Third Line
While it may be a tough pill to swallow, even with his contract, Elias Lindholm should start the year as the third line center. His defensive game is well-rounded, but he may not have enough offensive firepower to justify top six minutes at this stage.
The Bruins have multiple wingers, such as Khusnutdinov, who would mesh well on Boston’s third line. Also, Mikey Eyssimont and Alex Steeves could easily be slotted into this role throughout the season. This line will be easier to solidify once Boston determines who has earned playing time in the top six.
Fourth Line
Last year, the trio of Sean Kuraly, Tanner Jeannot, and Mark Kastelic proved to be a hard-hitting, formidable fourth line. The three wingers used their physicality and forechecking ability to consistently wear down the opponents.
It would be surprising if these three forwards were not back together in 2027. They all understood their roles and proved valuable for the Bruins.
The specific groupings will start to take shape over the course of camp, the preseason, and even into the year. But there are options for Sturm up and down the lineup. It will be interesting to see how Boston balances out the lines throughout the season.
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