Bruins Open Contract Talks With Marat Khusnutdinov
The 24-year-old forward is currently playing in the final year of his existing two-year contract with Boston.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Hockey
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The Boston Bruins have begun negotiations on a contract extension for Marat Khusnutdinov. The center and winger is entering the final season of a two-year deal signed in June 2025.
Why it matters
After establishing career highs in goals, assists, and points during the 2025-26 season, the team is looking to secure the future of a versatile forward who arrived in a 2025 trade.
Khusnutdinov is playing under a contract with a $925,000 annual cap hit, following a season where he recorded 15 goals and 18 assists in 77 games. The Bruins currently hold a 7-2-0 record as he approaches restricted free agency next year.
The players
Marat Khusnutdinov
He is a 24-year-old forward who plays center and wing for the Boston Bruins.
Fraser Minten
He is a Bruins player who recently signed a seven-year, $50.4 million contract extension with the organization.
The details
Khusnutdinov, who plays both center and wing, has become a key part of the lineup since his March 2025 arrival from the Minnesota Wild. He most recently scored in a 4-1 victory over the Los Angeles Kings on Oct. 17, 2026.
Timeline
March 2025: Khusnutdinov was traded to Boston.
June 2025: Khusnutdinov signed his current two-year contract.
September 16, 2026: A new collective bargaining agreement took effect.
September 2026: The Bruins signed Fraser Minten to a seven-year, $50.4 million extension.
October 17, 2026: Khusnutdinov scored a goal against the Los Angeles Kings.
Season Trajectory
These contract discussions occur as the league adjusts to the new collective bargaining agreement, which capped contract extensions at seven years. This shift follows the Bruins recent long-term commitment to Fraser Minten, signaling a focus on stabilizing the team's core roster.
Securing a multi-year deal for Khusnutdinov would solidify his role in the lineup, potentially impacting the team's available salary cap space for future seasons. Fans should monitor these talks as a bellwether for how the club manages its young core under the new seven-year extension limit.
The takeaway
Proactive contract negotiations help teams maintain core consistency before players reach restricted free agency. Evaluating player performance against the constraints of a new collective bargaining agreement is essential for long-term roster management.
What happens next
Khusnutdinov is scheduled to become a restricted free agent following the conclusion of the 2026-27 season.
Further reading
For more updates on the roster, visit Boston Hockey.
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