Gregory Campbell, Chris Kelly Get New Deals

By Emma Harger

Gregory Campbell and Chris Kelly have both been signed to new deals that will keep them as Boston Bruins for many years to come.

Campbell agreed to a three-year deal valued at $4.8 million total, or $1.6 million annually. So, in the end he got that raise from $1.1 million that he wanted, even if it is one behind the decimal point, and the fan favorite Merlot Line remains completely intact now that Daniel Paille and Shawn Thornton have both been signed to updated contracts. This line works well together, providing energy when needed, able to score goals, willing to answer the bell if necessary. They are an integral part of the Bruins’ ability to roll four quality forward lines.

Kelly’s breakout performance was rewarded by a $12 million total deal, or $3 million annually, over four years. Considering that Kelly performed so well this season, his continued presence and leadership in Boston will be well appreciated. Furthermore, there were whispers that Kelly might try the free agency market–and even some theories as to where he might go–but once again, general manager Peter Chiarelli acted shrewdly and laid claim to a high-quality player before he could be lured elsewhere.

Now that three of the team’s impending free agents have been re-signed, here are the rest of the Bruins who are still set to become free agents next month:

Of these six, I predict Rask will definitely be signed, especially because he seems poised to inherit the throne as starter. (In fact, I would not be surprised if news surfaces soon about his new deal.) Pouliot will probably get a deal too because he’s done well this season and even caused Jack Edwards to eat his words. Rolston may be ready to retire and might get one of those special one-day Mike Modano deals to retire as a Bruin. Turco will probably be let go because it seems like the goaltender line of succession has been re-settled. Mottau and Zanon I’m unsure of–Mottau didn’t get much of a look this season, and Zanon did make costly mistakes at times but his willingness to block shots is something to consider. Stay tuned for more news as July 1 approaches.

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