Trade rumours about RNH to Boston appear to be false

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Ryan Hall
June 1, 2023 (11:05 PM)

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The off-season is in full swing, it means trade rumours are abundant on the Internet and throughout many fans Facebook groups. Many general managers are currently trying to figure out where they sit in the draft and also how they will construct their team next year whether it's through trade or free agency.

One such rumour that has bubbled up recently is with Oilers star Ryan Nugent Hopkins. RNH has been linked to the Boston Bruins as the Bruins are currently entering an unknown time in their lineup. With the uncertainty with Patrice Bergeron and whether he will remain with the NHL or retire, the Bruins will be looking for a new centre to help bolster their lineup in the top 6.

One of the biggest obstacles for the Bruins is the cap space issues they're facing. According to capfriendly.com, the Bruins have $4.93 million to work with and only have 15 players signed for next year.

It will be difficult for general manager Don Sweeney to manage, which could require a retool or a small rebuild. With these cap constrains it's unlikely that they will be able to afford RNH's cap hit.

RNH has entered the third year of his contract of eight years worth $41 million. Another reason why this trade will not happen is that he has a full no-movement clause. This will mean that the Oilers will need to reach out to Nuge and request him to waive this clause.

Since Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl are his teammates, it is doubtful that he will do so. His contract will end in 2028-2029. He holds a modest $5.125 million cap hit throughout the whole length of his deal.

Finally, he has had a breakout year with the Oilers and had put up 104 points in one season. It's an incredible breakthrough for this player who has played for the Oilers since 2011.

Likely, this trade will not happen, and the Oilers will need to find a way to make their caps troubles work as well as the Boston Bruins.