Marat Khusnutdinov is reportedly closing in on a major payday with the Boston Bruins, giving head coach Marco Sturm another long-term piece up front.
NHL insider Kevin Weekes reported Wednesday that Boston is working toward a multi-year contract extension worth $4 million annually for the versatile forward.
That's a significant financial commitment to Khusnutdinov, whose development has made him an increasingly valuable part of Boston's forward group.
The agreement hasn't been officially announced, and the exact contract length remains unconfirmed. But the reported salary represents a substantial raise for a player who arrived in Boston with plenty to establish.
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Khusnutdinov currently carries a $925,000 cap hit, making the proposed extension a dramatic increase and a clear indication of how highly the Bruins value his contributions.
Bruins may be taking a gamble on Khusnutdinov extension
At 24 years old, the Russian forward offers Boston something beyond offensive production. His versatility allows Sturm to move him around the lineup depending on matchups and injuries.
The timing matters. Boston is working to establish a dependable young core, and securing Khusnutdinov would remove another contract question from the organization's immediate future.
Khusnutdinov enjoyed a breakthrough campaign last season, collecting 33 points in 77 games while demonstrating that he could handle greater NHL responsibilities.
His value also comes from his ability to contribute away from the puck, giving Sturm another option when defensive assignments become demanding.
Boston acquired Khusnutdinov from the Minnesota Wild at the 2025 trade deadline, a move that could now turn into a significant long-term investment.
For the Bruins, committing this kind of money would carry expectations. Khusnutdinov would no longer be viewed simply as an affordable, versatile forward with upside.
He would be paid like an established member of the lineup, with increased pressure to deliver consistent production and maintain his effectiveness across different roles.
The remaining question is when Boston makes the agreement official. If the reported terms hold, Khusnutdinov will have secured a major financial reward while the Bruins retain a forward entering his prime.
Should the Boston Bruins give Marat Khusnutdinov a $4 million annual contract extension?
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