NHL Trade Rumors: Bruins & One Other Team Pursuing Islanders' Alexander Romanov

With the 2025 NHL Draft fast approaching, the Boston Bruins and Philadelphia Flyers are circling New York Islanders defenseman Alexander Romanov. 

According to multiple reports, including Stefen Rosner of RG.org, both teams have reached out to inquire about the 25-year-old pending RFA, who could command a $5–6 million annual deal. Boston’s interest comes amid wider talks involving Jean-Gabriel Pageau and the Bruins’ seventh overall pick, an asset that may help the Islanders land Long Island native James Hagens if he drops that far.

Bruins, Flyers Pursue Romanov in Talks with Islanders Before Draft

Islanders GM Mathieu Darche faces tough decisions with limited cap flexibility. Romanov, a key physical presence with playoff experience, isn't the only name involved, as Noah Dobson has also drawn interest from Boston. 

Flyers and Bruins are among teams looking at Alexander Romanov as new Islanders GM Mathieu Darche continues to improve his team.@stefen_rosner with the latest below: https://t.co/AWnn6hfNog

— Marco D'Amico (@mndamico) June 19, 2025

While Romanov isn’t officially on the trade block, the Isles' need to re-sign Dobson and other RFAs, plus their ambition to add top-end forward talent, might push them to consider trade scenarios, especially if Boston is willing to move pieces like defenseman Mason Lohrei or their top-10 draft pick. 

Flyers See Romanov as Fit Amid Cam York Uncertainty

For the Flyers, Romanov could be a timely answer to Rasmus Ristolainen’s absence and general blue line inconsistency. The physical left-shot blueliner would offer a younger, tougher upgrade over Nick Seeler or Egor Zamula. But everything may hinge on how Philadelphia resolves negotiations with Cam York, who had a rocky season marred by injury and a reported rift with ex-coach John Tortorella. If the Flyers re-sign York, a deal for Romanov may fall through.

Sounds like Boston Bruins & Philadelphia Flyers have interest in Alexander Romanov from the New York Islanders. Romanov is a 2nd pairing defenseman. pic.twitter.com/4MJjkPFK3D

— Rono (@RonoAnalyst) June 19, 2025

That said, Philadelphia holds three first-round picks and plenty of cap room. A swap involving York and a later pick could entice the Islanders, who want to secure Hagens alongside their expected first-overall selection, Matthew Schaefer.

Photo Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images