Who should Boston Bruins target before trade deadline? Gavrikov features in splashy list

The Boston Bruins continue to dominate the league, posting a league-leading 42-8-5 record this season. While the team has been the best team in the league all season, management has to ask themselves a few questions as the March 3 trade deadline approaches: what player should we trade for or should we even mess with the current squad?

Last season, the Bruins traded for Hampus Lindholm from the Anaheim Ducks, and while they did not go on to win the Stanley Cup, the trade has been massive for the club. Boston is still reaping the rewards of the Lindholm deal, as the veteran defenseman has been a force for the squad, scoring six goals and 30 assists in 56 games played.

"Dear Boston Bruins, today would be a great day to announce a Pastrnak extension and a trade for Chychrun! #Bruins #Pastrnak #Chychrun" - Jim Shinney

According to multiple reports, GM Don Sweeney and the Bruins' front office believe that they are one defenseman away from winning the Stanley Cup. Rumors have circulated over the weeks linking Boston to several defensemen, including Vladislav Gavrikov, Luke Schenn, and Jakob Chychrun. Here is a look at each rumored player.

A Vladislav Gavrikov deal to the Boston Bruins may already be in place

A 6-foot-3 left-shooting defenseman, Gavrikov has recorded three goals and 10 points through 52 games this season with the Columbus Blue Jackets. The 27-year-old has been relegated to the bench as the team is avoiding risking injury to their trade piece, electing to hold him out until a deal can be made.

TSN Hockey Insider Chris Johnston reported last week that the Blue Jackets are looking for a three-asset return for Gavrikov, including a first-round pick, as the deadline approaches on March 3.

"The belief is that the Bruins have to make a trade before they can finalize this deal to bring in Vladislav Gavrikov" @_TyAnderson joins Sports Sunday to discuss the latest on the Gavrikov trade rumors" - NBC Sports Boston

If the Boston Bruins are willing to pay up for the blueliner, he may be the final piece required to bring home the Stanley Cup. However, the team may look elsewhere given the price tag attached to what essentially may become a rental.

Luke Schenn could be a rental that comes with a cheaper price tag

While the Boston Bruins have limited cap space, a deal for Gavrikov could take place, however, they would need to make another trade before they can complete a deal with Columbus. Enter Luke Schenn. The veteran blueliner has an $850,000 cap hit in comparison to Gavrikov who sits at $2.8 million.

"Bruins at center of Jakob Chychrun, Luke Schenn trade rumors http://dlvr.it/SjMmqV #NHLBruins" - WEEI

Schenn is one of the most sought-after names right now. A two-time Stanley Cup champion, Schenn's defensive abilities have drawn interest from several teams around the league, including the Boston Bruins. He could be a cheap and effective acquisition for Boston.

Jakob Chychrun continues to be mentioned in trade rumors

Trade rumors surrounding defenseman Jakob Chychrun continue to heat up, with many experts believing that a trade is imminent. The 24-year-old defenseman of the Arizona Coyotes has been linked to rumors all season as the club continues its rebuild.

As Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman wrote in his 32 Thoughts column last week:

"Boston is also believed to be in the left-defense market. Would not be surprised if they’ve checked in on Jakob Chychrun"

"More on the Chychrun situation: Bruins GM Don Sweeney is reportedly very concerned about Chychrun’s injury history. Likes the player, but is unsure about risking the future on him. Arizona has been very patient and feels a trade with either the Kings or Bruins is imminent. #NHL" - Phil Carter

The Boston Bruins would be the perfect fit for the Arizona Coyotes defenseman, as not only does the team need help this season, but his youth could make him a key piece moving forward.