BRUINS RETAIN BITZ & RECCHI, ACQUIRE BEGIN

The Bruins signed Byron Bitz to a 2 year deal worth $1.4 million. Bitz emerged late in the season as a strong slot presence, and one of the most physical players on the team. 2009-10 should see him shuffle between the 3rd and 4th lines.

Mark Recchi brings valuable experience and scoring potential to the middle lines. He was signed to a 1 year deal for $1 million. Although he's 41 years, he's still a potent scorer, notching 23 goals with the Bruins and Lightning. 10 of those goals came in 18 games in Boston.

We all know Steve Begin from his time with the Habs. Frankly, I think he's useless. He can be an antagonist, but as far as a hockey player goes, he's not good enough to make the Bruins.

The Sabres signed Steve Montador, and that's no big loss. Montador occasionally struggled, and was exposed in the Carolina series. Then again, without him, the Bruins would have been even more shallow at that position. So in a way, he helped.

No word on Phil Kessel.