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By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
The Bruins have made their first significant move ahead of the NHL Trade Deadline. They’re reportedly sending David Backes, a first-round pick, and defenseman Axel Andersson to the Ducks for winger Ondrej Kase.
Marisa Ingemi of the Boston Herald was first to report that Backes and a first would be headed to Anaheim, and later added that Andersson is also part of the deal. Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic was first to report that Kase is coming back Boston’s way.
Since the B’s gave up their first-round pick and Andersson, a second-round pick in 2018, the likelihood is that the Ducks are absorbing the majority of Backes’ remaining contract. He was set to make another $6 million in 2020-21.
Acquiring Kase gives the Bruins a much-needed right-shot right wing with the potential to play in the middle-six. He has seven goals and 23 points in 49 games with the Ducks this season.
But perhaps more importantly, moving Backes off the cap means the Bruins can add another player with term and now have the financial flexibility to sign the long-term deals they want with players in-house.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at [email protected].