The Bruins have made their second trade of Deadline Day, acquiring defenseman Andrew Peeke from the Columbus Blue Jackets in exchange for defenseman Jakub Zboril.
Peeke, a 25-year-old right-shot defenseman, was drafted 34th overall by Columbus in 2016. He has played his entire NHL career with the Blue Jackets, appearing in 218 games over five seasons. However, this season hasn’t been his strongest, with Peeke often being a healthy scratch and participating in just 23 games.
His performance metrics this season are concerning, with Peeke having only played in 21 games and struggling with a relative expected goal rate of minus-1.21, the lowest in the league. Even on a struggling team like Columbus, his lack of impact raises doubts about his ability to contribute to a contender.
The Bruins are taking a chance on Peeke, hoping that their team structure and defense can help him rediscover his form as a productive defensive defenseman. However, absorbing Peeke’s full salary seems like a risky move, especially considering his recent performance.
For Zboril, this trade marks the end of a disappointing tenure with the Bruins. While he showed potential at times, inconsistency and injuries prevented him from fully developing. It remains to be seen if he can find success in Columbus.