REPORT: Boston Contemplating Trading Franchise Cornerstone

Tough times may be near in Boston, and with so much uncertainty around the future of their aging core, it might be time for management to blow it all up. While it could anger fans, it would be better to jump on the rebuild train before it's too late, and your assets have no value.

It's been heavily reported that Bruins Captain and star center Patrice Bergeron has yet to make a decision regarding his future. The aging veteran played this season on a cheap, one-year contract, but could be calling it a career this summer, despite his play barely wavering.

By leaving Boston in the dark regarding his future plans, Bergeron has essentially handicapped the team until he makes his decision. His final choice will ultimately determine the direction they go in, but the longer he waits, the worse it will be for Boston.

A recent discussion that took place on The Skate Pod touched on the topic of Bergeron's potential retirement, and what implications it could have for the Bruins. Members of the podcast floated the idea that if Bergeron does indeed call it a career this summer, it would give the Bruins the perfect excuse to commit to a full-blown rebuild.

A complete blowing up of Boston's core would almost certainly include a Brad Marchand trade, as the aging winger is bound to decline in the next few years. If Boston wants to maximize their return value on Marchand, they'd be wise to trade him before it's too late.

While nothing is guaranteed, it seems more and more like Boston could be trading Marchand in the next calendar year. Buckle up Bruins fans, you're in for a rough ride!

As Seen on Hockey Patrol - BREAKING: Boston Bruins Testing Market on Superstar Winger

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