To me it's guys like Heinen, DeBrusk, Bjork, McAvoy, Carlo, Kuraly, and Grzelyck performing on their ELC's that has opened up a new window here. Maybe I'm crazy, but I think there's a legit case to be made that Bjork for the next 2.5 years at $925K will be of more value to the Bruins than someone like Simmonds for 1.5 years at $4M. He's in the American League I know, but he's an NHL'er. Need to aim higher if he's your base for a trade (Bjork + a 1st).
They've built a prospect pool that is so deep, it's unrealistic to think they'll all make it. Eventually they are going to have to make a tough decision for the benefit of the current group IMO. The can afford to make that move without depleting their prospect pool or youth. That's the position that every GM wants to be in I would think.