A Familiar Face Returns
The Boston Bruins bolstered their blue line on Wednesday, officially announcing the return of defenseman Connor Clifton on a two-year contract. The deal carries an average annual value (AAV) of $2.25 million, providing the Bruins with a familiar veteran presence at a cost-effective price point.
Clifton, 31, spent the first five seasons of his NHL career in Boston after signing as an AHL-contract player in 2017. He appeared in 232 games for the Original Six franchise before departing in 2023. Since then, he has gained experience with the Buffalo Sabres and the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he recorded six points in 50 games during the 2025-26 season.
Strategic Cap Management
The signing appears to signal the end of Andrew Peeke’s tenure with the Bruins. By securing Clifton at $2.25 million, the organization saves $500,000 in cap space compared to Peeke’s previous hit. Analysts suggest that while the Bruins remain in the market for a top-four right-shot defenseman, the organization opted for a fiscally responsible bridge rather than committing to high-value, long-term contracts currently available in free agency.
In a related move on Wednesday, the Bruins also re-signed defenseman Jordan Harris. Harris, a 25-year-old Haverhill native, joins the roster on a team-friendly $850,000 deal, likely serving as the team’s seventh defenseman as he recovers from an ankle injury.