What Do the Boston Bruins Do If Marian Hossa Goes Elsewhere?

Much of the talk of "making a big splash" in free agency for the Boston Bruins revolves around one name: Marian Hossa. We'll have to wait until July 1, at the earliest, to see if the B's can get Hossa in a spoked B uniform. Until then, it sure is fun to imagine the possibilities when you pair Hossa up with Savard, Bergeron, Kessel, and the other up-and-coming youngsters in the Bruins lineup.

When talking about Hossa and the Bruins, a bigger question comes to mind. What if the Bruins can't get Hossa signed? What do they do next? I've got four names to throw into the hat for discussion. If no Hossa, the Bruins need to bring in at least two of these players. Two of the players are currently with the Canadiens. Wouldn't it be wonderful to steal a player or two from the much-hated Habs?

RIGHT WING

One of the biggest weaknesses the Bruins face in the future is a lack of depth at right wing. Hossa would help clear up that weakness. Here are two other players who have to be considered if Hossa isn't signed.

Brian Rolston – Rolston has played the last three years for the Minnesota Wild. He signed with the Wild as a free agent after leaving the Bruins. Why the Bruins ever let him go in the first place is another discussion altogether. He may be a little old (35), but he would bring a ton of experience to the team. 

His stats are outstanding for a defensive-minded team. His last seven years, he's scored between 48-79 points each year. He’s been over 30 goals each of the past three years. He plays on the power play and the penalty kill. He gets back on defense. He won't be able to give a team as many years as Hossa would, but he'd provide scoring, playmaking, leadership, and special teams play for a team that needs help.

Michael Ryder – Ryder is only 28 years old, and could be signed to a longer-term contract than Rolston. He's had two 30-goal seasons in the past three years; his first year he scored 25 goals. His numbers dipped slightly this year. Outside Hossa and Rolston, Ryder would be the most affordable option available.

DEFENSE

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