Bruins Make Minor Deal

BOSTON -  Bruins made a minor deal today sending Providence hopefuls Nick Spaling and Adam Cracknell to Phoenix in exchange for gritty agitator Jarkko Ruutu and prospect Akim Aliu. With a recent string of wins the Bruins have positioned themselves to make the playoffs. GM Valente explains " We are hopeful that we will be able to solidify a playoff birth by adding some much needed defensive help in Ruutu. We like that he mixes it up and hope he continues to have the team-first mentality that he has shown in Phoenix."   The Bruins also acquired another agitator in Akim Aliu, who has yet to develop his offensive prowness he has shown while playing in Junior.  The Bruins parted with two promising young players in Spaling and Cracknell however he was satisfied getting Aliu in the swap. Bruins had inquired about Aliu earlier in the season however he was not available at the time.

With the addition of Jarkko Ruutu it seems that Sean Avery's time in Boston is coming to a close - with his contract expiring this season there is speculation that the Bruins might try to move him come trade deadline but it seems doubtful they will resign the agitator to another contract. Another question mark is Mike Knuble who brings a wealth of playoff experience - will the Bruins move him come trade deadline or keep him for the playoff run? GM Valente had this to say "For every trade I make I try to follow the blueprint I have layed out for this team that is - to be a contender for years to come. When it comes to any player regardless of their status I am only concerned with if they fit into the longterm plans."

Rumor Mill: It seems the Bruins are setting their sights on the playoffs  It seems if the Bruins can lockup a playoff spot don't be too sure they will be huge buyers but rather it looks this trade will set the tone of many more to come. The Bruins will look to making a couple of adjustments to their starting line up possibly to bring in some youth through the acuqisition of draft picks or prospects.  It seems they have a couple of players on the block including some of their top defense.