Bruins unwilling to include Pastrnak in potential Shattenkirk trade

The Boston Bruins weren't about to part ways with David Pastrnak in their search for help on the blue line.

Believed to be well in the mix for St. Louis Blues defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk, general manager Don Sweeney ultimately wasn't willing to meet the exorbitant asking price, which could have included both first-round picks (14th and 29th), as well as the talented young winger.

"I wasn't trading David Pastrnak," Sweeney said, according to Joe Haggerty of CSN. "We've been criticized, and rightfully so at times, for being impatient with our younger, skilled players. This represents a good opportunity that we don't want to do that."

"In all honesty it would have taken both first-rounders and then some ... the acquisition cost was high," Sweeney added of the asking price for Shattenkirk. "We've taken a position where we're going to build this the right way. We want to be competitive and improve our team, and we'll be active in the free-agent market to fill holes while allowing our young players to push through."

The Bruins did select defenseman Charles McAvoy at 14, but will continue to look for a defenseman who can step in and help the NHL roster next season.