ESPN analyst and NHL insider Kevin Weekes shared on X.com Tuesday that several teams are showing interest in Boston Bruins forward Trent Frederic, who will become an unrestricted free agent after this season. According to Weekes, Frederic’s “size, speed, toughness, character, and skill” make him a sought-after player in the market. Frederic, an experienced NHL player with 293 games—all with the Bruins—has recorded 48 goals, 49 assists, and a total of 97 points.
As he heads toward free agency, Frederic’s performance is drawing attention. Although the Bruins have improved recently, their shaky start may have spurred trade discussions. Despite being a first-round pick (29th overall in the 2016 NHL Draft) with a career-best 18 goals and 22 assists last season, Frederic’s three points and -8 rating across 13 games this year aren’t signaling a standout contract year. At 26, he’s a solid middle-six forward but has yet to meet the high expectations typically set for a first-round selection.
Teams seem interested in Frederic’s potential, given his physical play and offensive flashes in the past. Though off to a slow start, his 41 hits place him second on the team, demonstrating his commitment to making an impact.
For the Bruins, the dilemma lies in whether to trade him as a buy-low option amidst their early struggles. The team might prefer to build leverage with a stronger record before making a move.
Weekes’ report hints that Frederic’s name could surface frequently in trade conversations as the season progresses.
