The Bruins have done little to inspire confidence that a late-season surge into the postseason is in the cards. Since Neely’s comments, the Bruins are 3-3-1, dropping back-to-back games against the Sabres and Jets this week by a combined score of 13-4.

Miller, 31, is the big prize in the deal. He’s had a down year amidst reports of a fractured locker room in Vancouver. The Canucks were expected to move either him or Elias Petterson in hopes of breaking up the discontent on that team. Miller has nine goals and 26 assists this season after three straight seasons of at least 30.

The Boston Bruins are struggling this season and Brad Marchand is in the final year of his deal, sparking a real possibility for a trade.