Bruins, Islanders Near Major Trade Talks Over Top-10 NHL Draft Picks

The Boston Bruins are actively engaged in trade talks with the New York Islanders ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft, exploring several options to strengthen their roster after missing the playoffs. Central to the discussions is Boston's seventh overall pick, which the Bruins might trade to move up in the draft or acquire established NHL players such as Islanders defensemen Alexander Romanov or Noah Dobson, and forward Jean-Gabriel Pageau. Romanov, a promising 25-year-old defenseman and pending restricted free agent, could command a late first-round pick and would bolster Boston's blue line as a second-pairing defender known for his strong defensive play and moderate offensive contribution. Pageau, entering the final year of his contract, is seen as a potential middle-six center addition for Boston, fitting their need for depth at that position, though the cost depends on whether he is viewed as a short-term rental or a longer-term asset. The Bruins are also considering drafting Long Island native James Hagens, a center who has slipped in draft rankings and could be a valuable homegrown talent if they retain the seventh pick or trade up. Overall, Boston is balancing the possibility of acquiring immediate roster help through trades with the chance to develop young talent via the draft, reflecting a strategic approach to retooling their lineup for the 2025-26 season.