The Boston Bruins must work hard to avoid making this mistake.
Trent Frederic has emerged as a key member of the Boston Bruins' roster. While the 2016 first-round pick had some growing pains in his earlier NHL years, he has only improved in each season that has passed by.
In 2022-23 with the Bruins, Frederic cemented himself as a solid secondary scorer, posting 17 goals and 31 points in 79 games. However, he took his game to a new level this past season, recording new career highs with 18 goals, 22 assists, 40 points, and 204 hits. His improved offensive production and extremely gritty style of play made him an immensely impactful player for Boston in 2023-24.
Frederic, 26, is now entering a crucial season, as he is in the final year of his current contract and can become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2025. However, GM Don Sweeney should work quickly to sign Frederic to a contract extension to avoid the prospect of potentially losing him next summer. Letting him walk would have the potential to be a significant mistake.
The Bruins' depth on the wing already took a hit this offseason, as Jake DeBrusk and Danton Heinen both left in free agency. Losing another key winger in Frederic next summer would be far less than ideal, especially when noting that the St. Louis, Missouri native not only provides skill but also toughness.
Nevertheless, seeing what the Bruins decide to do with Frederic will be interesting. Given that he is only continuing to improve, it would be wise for Boston to keep him around.
