With the trade deadline only weeks away, the Boston Bruins are expected to be one of the league’s busiest teams. While the defending Eastern Conference champions have won their first three games since the All-Star break, they are still looking for upgrades offensively. The Bruins have shown interest in a few forwards, including Tyler Toffoli, Chris Kreider, and most recently, Josh Anderson. While the Blue Jackets forward has battled injuries all season, he could be an interesting addition to the Bruins offense.
In 26 games this season, Anderson has one goal and three assists. The former sixth-round pick has yet to record a point on the powerplay and has only landed 63 shots on net. While Anderson has struggled mightily this year with a plus/minus rating of -8, he has not appeared in a game since Dec. 14th due to a shoulder injury.
Jamie Benn & Josh Anderson with a HUGE tilt 👊🏻👊🏻 pic.twitter.com/y3yGVh4YcV
— Kliff’s Bedroom (@KliffsBedroom) November 13, 2018
Although Anderson is in the midst of a down season, he could still provide some value down the stretch. The Canadian native has shown an ability to score as his goal total has increased each of the previous three seasons. Anderson also has a knack for coming through in the clutch, recording 13 career game-winning goals.
Additionally, the Blue Jackets forward would bring some toughness to the Bruins lineup. Last year he landed a career-high 214 hits, which placed him in the top 20. He has already recorded 68 hits in his limited action this year and blocked 13 shots showing that he isn’t afraid to sacrifice his body.
Due to Anderson’s disappointing start, the Blue Jackets may be more willing to part with their younger winger. Although he will be a restricted free agent in the offseason, Anderson carries a cap hit of just $1.8 million. The 25-year-old’s style of play would make him perfect in the Bruins system. He would, however, most likely cost a draft pick and a player already in the system.
Although Anderson comes with risk, he would fit well alongside Jake DeBrusk and David Krejci. The former fourth-round pick is less than one season removed from his best offensive year and has shown that he can handle a top-six role.
Leading up to the deadline Anderson will be an interesting player to watch if he can show that he is healthy. Although Chris Kreider has been rumored to be the Bruins top choice, he will cost more. Regardless of what Don Sweeney decides, Anderson’s name will continue to pop up in the rumor mill.
