Report: Bruins Discussed Moving Pavel Zacha, ‘Haven’t Been Close’ on Extension

The Boston Bruins reportedly discussed trading center Pavel Zacha to the Columbus Blue Jackets during talks for Kirill Marchenko. According to The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun, the Bruins and Zacha also have not been close in contract extension talks over the past three months. Marchenko was ultimately traded to the Toronto Maple Leafs, leaving Zacha in Boston as he enters the final year of his deal before becoming an unrestricted free agent.

Bruins general manager Don Sweeney stated the team intends to keep negotiating with Zacha, describing him as a crucial part of the roster. However, LeBrun noted that Boston experienced initial sticker shock regarding Zacha's contract demands. If the Bruins fall out of playoff contention before the March trade deadline without a permanent extension in place, Zacha could potentially be moved.