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  • Elliotte Friedman Names Top Candidates to Coach the Bruins Next Season

    Elliotte Friedman Names Top Candidates to Coach the Bruins Next Season

    The Boston Bruins are on the hunt for their next head coach, and if insider Elliotte Friedman is right, they might be leaning toward a first-time NHL bench boss. With the Seattle Kraken and Pittsburgh Penguins also searching for new coaches, the pool of available candidates is shrinking fast—so who’s in the running for the Bruins’ top job?

    A Focus on Up-and-Coming Coaches

    While some big-name coaches have already landed elsewhere, the Bruins seem to be eyeing assistant coaches with impressive resumes but little (or no) NHL head coaching experience. According to Friedman, the leading candidates include:

    • Marco Sturm – A former NHL forward turned assistant coach, Sturm has built a reputation for developing young talent and fine-tuning defensive systems.
    • Jay Leach – Currently a Bruins assistant, Leach has the inside track thanks to his deep ties to the organization and strong relationships with management.
    • Jeff Halpern – Known for his work with forwards and power plays, Halpern’s leadership has reportedly impressed Boston’s decision-makers.
    • Jeff Blashill – The only candidate with previous NHL head coaching experience (Detroit Red Wings), Blashill has spent recent years as an assistant, rebuilding his reputation.

    And don’t sleep on Mitch Love—the Washington Capitals assistant may be new to the NHL, but his success developing players in the AHL (with the Calgary Wranglers) has made him a dark horse in this race.

    Why Jay Leach Might Have the Edge

    Of all the candidates, Jay Leach could be the frontrunner. Having spent last season behind the Bruins’ bench, he already knows the team’s culture, roster, and front office inside out. His existing relationships with GM Don Sweeney and president Cam Neely could give him a leg up—especially if the Bruins value continuity over an outside hire.

    Friedman suggests that while nothing is set in stone, Leach’s familiarity with the organization makes him a logical choice. But with other strong contenders in the mix, the Bruins’ final decision could come down to who best fits their vision for the future.

    Why the Bruins Might Bet on a Rookie Coach?

    The Bruins aren’t just looking for a new head coach—they seem to be searching for the right fit, even if that means handing the reins to someone who’s never held an NHL bench boss job before. Instead of chasing a big-name retread, they’re eyeing fresh voices—coaches who can bring new ideas, adapt to the team’s evolving identity, and grow with the roster.

    This approach makes sense. Whether it’s promoting from within (like Jay Leach) or bringing in an up-and-comer (say, Marco Sturm or Mitch Love), the Bruins appear focused on stability and long-term vision. They’re not looking to blow things up—just to find someone who can work seamlessly with Don Sweeney and Cam Neely to steer the ship forward.

    What’s Next? The Clock is Ticking

    With free agency, the draft, and trade talks heating up, the Bruins don’t have the luxury of dragging out this decision. Their next coach won’t just be calling plays—they’ll be helping shape the roster, setting the tone for the team’s identity, and (ideally) guiding Boston back into true Cup contention.

    It’s a gamble, sure. But sometimes, the best moves aren’t the safest ones. Whether it’s Leach’s familiarity, Love’s player development chops, or another candidate’s untapped potential, the Bruins seem ready to bet on upside. And if they get this right? It could define the franchise’s future.

  • Lindholm Stellar Performance for Sweden Hints at Big Things for Bruins

    Lindholm Stellar Performance for Sweden Hints at Big Things for Bruins

    Elias Lindholm’s journey with the Boston Bruins has been a wild ride since he signed a seven-year, $54.25 million deal last summer. After a tough start to the 2024-25 season due to a back injury, Lindholm found his groove late in the year, and now he’s making headlines at the 2025 IIHF World Championship. He’s giving Bruins fans plenty to be excited about.

    Slow Start Turned Around

    Lindholm’s first season with the Bruins didn’t go as planned, mostly due to an early-August back injury that lingered and affected him all season. But things started to click after the trade deadline when interim head coach Joe Sacco put him back with David Pastrnak and Morgan Geekie.

    In the last 16 games of the season, Lindholm had six goals and nine assists, third on the team in scoring with 17 goals and 30 assists for 47 points. It wasn’t the breakout season everyone expected, but his finish showed glimpses of the player the Bruins thought they were getting when they signed him.

    Center Stage at the World Championship

    Lindholm’s finish has carried over into the 2025 IIHF World Championship, where he’s dominating. He had a natural hat trick in a 4-0 shutout win over Slovenia. Through five games, he leads the tournament in scoring with five goals and four assists for nine points.

    His vision, timing, and two-way game are better than ever, reminding everyone why the Bruins invested so much in him. If Lindholm keeps playing like this, his play will translate into next season, and he could be a cornerstone of the offense.

    Pastrnak Shines Alongside Lindholm

    Lindholm isn’t the only Bruins star shining at the World Championship. David Pastrnak is also lighting it up for Czechia, tied with Lindholm for points (five goals and four assists) but in just four games.

    Pastrnak’s creativity and flair are on full display, creating space, finishing chances, and making highlight-reel plays. Watching him dominate on the international stage just reinforces he’s one of the NHL’s top scorers and gives Bruins fans even more to be excited about next season.

    Dans Locmelis: A Prospect Stealing the Spotlight

    While Lindholm and Pastrnak are getting all the headlines, Bruins prospect Dans Locmelis is flying under the radar. The 20-year-old Latvian forward, taken by Boston in the 2022 NHL Entry Draft, has 3 goals and 1 assist in 4 games for Latvia.

    He looks dangerous every time he touches the puck, speed, skill, and confidence. If he brings this into training camp, the Bruins front office will have some tough decisions to make about the opening night roster.

    What This Means for the Bruins

    Lindholm, Pastrnak, and Locmelis are all good signs for the Bruins. Lindholm is looking like he’s going to live up to his big contract, Pastrnak is proving he’s one of the best in the league, and Locmelis is adding depth and intrigue to the pipeline.

    If these guys bring this into training camp, the Bruins will enter the 2025-26 season with new energy and high expectations. With all the right pieces clicking, Boston might finally have the firepower to win a championship.

  • Brad Marchand Roasts Leafs Fans After Panthers Dominant Game 5 Win

    Brad Marchand Roasts Leafs Fans After Panthers Dominant Game 5 Win

    The Toronto Maple Leafs are on the ropes and their fans are sweating. After a great start to their second round series against the Florida Panthers, the Leafs have now lost three in a row, including a 6-1 thrashing at home on Wednesday night. And to add insult to injury, Brad Marchand rubbed it in after the game.

    Panthers Win Game 5, Put Leafs on the Brink

    The Panthers came out strong in Game 5, dominating the Leafs in every way. Toronto’s offense couldn’t get anything going, while Florida capitalized on their chances and scored six goals in front of a stunned crowd at Scotiabank Arena.

    For Leafs fans, the loss was not just bad—it was embarrassing. The team that started the series 2-0 now finds themselves one game away from another early exit. And nobody enjoyed it more than Brad Marchand.

    Marchand’s Smirk Says It All

    As Marchand skated off the ice after the Panthers’ win, a few frustrated Leafs fans couldn’t help but yell some choice words in his direction. But instead of getting defensive, Marchand just smiled—big time. It was like a punch to the gut for Leafs fans.

    This isn’t the first time Marchand has gotten under the skin of Leafs fans. He’s made a career out of tormenting Toronto, both as a member of the Boston Bruins and now with the Panthers. He’s been absolutely dominant in this series, with five points (2 goals, 3 assists) in five games.

    Marchand’s Playoff Mastery Against the Leafs

    Marchand is owning the Leafs. If the Panthers close out the series, it will be the 5th time he’s bounced Toronto from the playoffs. He did it in 2013, 2018, 2019 and 2024 with the Bruins and now he’s doing it again with Florida.

    The irony isn’t lost on anyone—Marchand was traded to the Panthers earlier this season in a deal that could send a 1st round pick back to Boston if Florida wins 2 rounds and Marchand plays in at least 50% of those games. So far Marchand hasn’t missed a playoff game for the Panthers and with Florida one win away from the ECF, that 1st round pick is looking more and more likely.

    Bruins’ Gamble Could Pay Off Big Time

    The trade that sent Marchand to Florida included a 2027 2nd rounder that becomes a 1st rounder if he makes the playoffs. With Marchand leading the way, the Panthers are proving the Bruins gave them the keys to the deep playoff kingdom.

    For Leafs fans watching Marchand do it again against their team must feel like déjà vu. He’s always been able to rise to the occasion and get under opponents’ skin, and he’s become one of the most hated guys in the league.

  • Boston Bruins Strike Out on Top Coaching Target: What Went Wrong?

    Boston Bruins Strike Out on Top Coaching Target: What Went Wrong?

    The Boston Bruins search for a new head coach hit a snag when Rick Tocchet, one of their top targets, signed with the Philadelphia Flyers. Now the Bruins are back to the drawing board and wondering what went wrong.

    Rick Tocchet Chooses Flyers Over Bruins

    Rick Tocchet was the top candidate to lead the Bruins into the next chapter. After leaving the Vancouver Canucks, Tocchet was the hottest coaching commodity this offseason. His resume is 286-265-87 over nine seasons as an NHL head coach with the Tampa Bay Lightning, Arizona Coyotes and Canucks. He won the Jack Adams Award last season after leading Vancouver to a Pacific Division title and is one of the top coaches in the league.

    The Bruins were one of the final three teams in the running for Tocchet, along with the Flyers and Seattle Kraken. But Tocchet chose Philly and the Bruins got zip.

    “Tocchet would have been a good coach for the Bruins,” said one source. “His experience, leadership and Stanley Cup pedigree would have been perfect for a team looking to stay competitive while transitioning into a new era.”

    Oh well, back to the drawing board for the Bruins.

    Why Did Tocchet Choose Philadelphia Over Boston?

    While we don’t know for sure why Tocchet chose Philly, here are a few reasons that likely played a role:

    1. Tocchet’s History with Philadelphia

    Tocchet played most of his career with the Flyers, 621 games over 11 seasons. That’s a deep connection to the franchise.

    2. Flyers’ Aggressive Pursuit

    The Flyers were reportedly very aggressive in their pursuit of Tocchet and made it clear he was their guy. A big contract—over $6 million per year—may have been the deciding factor.

    3. Bruins’ Uncertainty

    While the Bruins are a good team, there’s still a lot of uncertainty with the organization. With key players aging and salary cap issues looming, Tocchet may have wanted a clearer path to success in Philly.

    What’s Next for the Bruins?

    Now that Tocchet is off the board, the Bruins will have to look elsewhere. One name that keeps popping up is former Bruins forward Marco Sturm, who has been linked to the team recently.

    Sturm, an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Kings, has ties to the organization and is a good player developer. According to sources, he has a “real shot” at the job.

    Other possibilities:

    • Jay Woodcroft: Former Edmonton Oilers head coach who took them to the Western Conference Finals in 2022.
    • Misha Donskov: Assistant coach with the Dallas Stars, works well with young players.
    • Mitch Love: Assistant coach with the Washington Capitals, defensive specialist.

    Lessons Learned from Missing Tocchet

    Missing out on Tocchet shows how tough it is to navigate the NHL coaching market. In a competitive world, teams have to act fast and sell their vision to get top candidates.

    For the Bruins, this is a wake up call. While they’re a storied franchise, they couldn’t get Tocchet, so they need to get clear on their organizational direction. Going forward, they’ll have to sell their vision to their next head coach if they don’t want to go through this again.

    A New Chapter for the Bruins

    Missing out on Tocchet hurts, but it’s not the end of the world for the Bruins. Their next hire will be huge, whether they go with a veteran like Sturm or a younger voice like Donskov or Love.

    For now, we’ll just have to wait and see who gets behind the bench. But one thing is for sure: the pressure is on to get this right.

  • Jay Woodcroft Emerges as Top Contender for Bruins Head Coach Role

    Jay Woodcroft Emerges as Top Contender for Bruins Head Coach Role

    The NHL coaching carousel is in full spin, and several teams have already filled their vacancies. The Rangers got Mike Sullivan, the Ducks hired Joel Quenneville, the Canucks promoted Adam Foote and the Flyers got Rick Tocchet. But one team still in the process is the Boston Bruins, and they seem to have a front runner for the job.

    According to Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli, former Edmonton Oilers head coach Jay Woodcroft is the “leading candidate” for the Bruins’ head coaching position. On the “Morning Cuppa Hockey” podcast, Seravalli said Woodcroft’s interactions with the Bruins have been good so far.

    “I think it’s gone well for him there,” Seravalli said. “So I’d say keep an eye on that too.”

    Jay Woodcroft’s NHL Resume

    At 48 years old, Jay Woodcroft has a lot of experience as a head coach and assistant in the NHL. His most recent stint was with the Edmonton Oilers, where he was head coach for three seasons from 2022 to 2024.

    Woodcroft was the interim head coach in 2022 and got the Oilers to the Western Conference Finals before losing to the eventual Stanley Cup champion Colorado Avalanche. The next season (2022-23), he had the Oilers at 50-23-9 (109 points), and they went to the second round against the Vegas Golden Knights, another eventual Cup winner.

    But the 2023-24 season got off to a rough start for Edmonton, and they were 3-9-1. That’s when Woodcroft was let go in November, but his body of work during his tenure is solid.

    Before his time in Edmonton’s top job, Woodcroft was head coach of the Oilers’ AHL affiliate, the Bakersfield Condors, for four seasons (105-71-21) and seven years as an assistant coach with the San Jose Sharks (2008-15) and three more with the Oilers (2015-18).

    What Woodcroft Has Been Doing Since His Departure?

    Since leaving the Oilers, Woodcroft hasn’t been idle. In an interview with Daily Faceoff’s Steven Ellis, he told me how he’s used this time to improve.

    “I’ve had a 20 year career with three different organizations and I’ve never had this time before,” Woodcroft said. “So, I’ve really tried to invest in being the best I can be. Study ways to get better. Look at communication. Look at how to improve team culture.”

    Woodcroft said his focus has been on getting player buy-in and engagement, skills he thinks will serve him well for his next opportunity. While this wasn’t what he had planned, he views it as an opportunity to get better and come back stronger than ever.

    Where the Bruins Stand in Their Search?

    The coaching search is still in its infancy. GM Don Sweeney said they’ve started Zooms and will move to in-person meetings soon. But Sweeney also said some candidates are still in the postseason, so decisions won’t be made right away.

    That opens the door for assistants like Misha Donskov of the Dallas Stars or Mitch Love of the Washington Capitals to get in the mix. But Woodcroft’s name is still gaining traction as the top guy.

    He’s got NHL head coaching experience, playoff success, and a track record of developing players. He’s the kind of coach the Bruins need after a disappointing season.

    Why Woodcroft is the Perfect Fit for Boston?

    If hired, Woodcroft would bring stability and innovation to the bench. He’s known for his great communication skills and adaptability, and gets the most out of his players. And his experience with high-powered offenses (like the Oilers’ Connor McDavid line) could translate well to Boston’s roster with David Pastrňák and Brad Marchand.

    No decision has been made yet, but Woodcroft being a leading candidate means the Bruins are serious about finding a coach who can get them back to contender status.

  • Bruins Emerge as Top Contenders for Rick Tocchet

    Bruins Emerge as Top Contenders for Rick Tocchet

    The Boston Bruins are making noise in the NHL coaching market and are one of the top teams to land veteran head coach Rick Tocchet. They’re looking for a proven leader and are positioning themselves to make a big splash this offseason.

    Why Rick Tocchet is a Hot Ticket

    Rick Tocchet, 61, is the most wanted coaching candidate this offseason after being let go by the Vancouver Canucks at the end of the 2024-25 season. Despite a disappointing finish in Vancouver—where the Canucks missed the playoffs by six points—Tocchet’s resume is impressive.

    Last season he won the Jack Adams Award as the NHL’s Coach of the Year and led the Canucks to a Pacific Division title and a 50-23-9 record. In three years in Vancouver, he was 108-65-27 (.608) overall. He can build a competitive team.

    Bruins Among Top Contenders

    According to TSN’s Darren Dreger, the Bruins are among the “top contenders” for Tocchet’s services, along with the Philadelphia Flyers and Seattle Kraken. The Flyers are going hard after him but the Bruins have some unique advantages that could sway Tocchet.

    For starters, Tocchet has deep ties to Boston. He played for the Bruins from 1995 to 1997, skating alongside franchise legends like Cam Neely and Don Sweeney. Today, Neely is the president and Sweeney is the GM—a connection that could be big in bringing Tocchet back to Boston.

    “Boston is a club I’ve been saying keep an eye on the Bruins,” said The Athletic’s Rick Dhaliwal on a recent episode of Donnie & Dhali . “I will be surprised if the Bruins don’t contact Tocchet. He’s a Boston guy.”

    Dhaliwal added, “Boston is a place where it just reeks of Rick Tocchet. Cam Neely’s running the show there. I would be shocked if Boston isn’t a team that looks at Rick Tocchet.”

    What Tocchet Brings to the Bruins?

    If hired, Tocchet would bring a ton of experience and a no nonsense approach to coaching that fits the Bruins perfectly. He’s a fiery guy and a player’s coach and could be the perfect fit for a team that wants to stay relevant.

    But it won’t come cheap. According to Daily Faceoff’s Frank Seravalli, Tocchet will command one of the biggest contracts ever for an NHL head coach.

    “I think he’s going to have multiple mega offers that are game changers for the coaching pay scale,” Seravalli said. “I’m going to project that Rick Tocchet is on at least a 5 year deal and north of $6 million per year.”

    For the Bruins, investing in Tocchet would be a commitment to staying competitive in a rapidly changing Eastern Conference.

    The Competition for Tocchet

    The Bruins are in the mix, but they’re not the only team in the hunt. The Flyers are going hard, and the Kraken are looking to take the next step as a franchise. The Flyers have a history with Tocchet—he played 621 games in Philly. That could be an advantage, but the Bruins have the front office connections and organizational stability that could tip the scale in their favor.

    What’s Next for the Bruins?

    If the Bruins choose Tocchet over younger, less experienced guys like Misha Donskov or Mitch Love, it will be a change of strategy. Instead of going with a new face, the Bruins are looking to bring in a battle tested leader to guide the team through the next chapter.

    For now, all eyes are on Boston as they make this decision. Will they roll the dice on Tocchet or go elsewhere? One thing is for sure: the Bruins’ decision will be huge for the franchise.

  • Former Boston Bruins Coach Criticizes Officials After Overtime Loss

    Former Boston Bruins Coach Criticizes Officials After Overtime Loss

    Bruce Cassidy, the outspoken former head coach of the Boston Bruins and current bench boss of the Vegas Golden Knights, never hesitates to speak his mind—whether it’s about players, opposing coaches or referees. And his fiery personality was on full display after a gut-wrenching overtime loss to the Edmonton Oilers in Game 2 of their second-round series.

    A Controversial Play Sparks Outrage

    The game was tied 4-4 heading into overtime Thursday night in Vegas. The tension was high as both teams battled for the win. But just before Leon Draisaitl scored the winner 15:20 into overtime, a controversial play unfolded that had Cassidy seething.

    Vegas defenseman Brayden McNabb was skating behind the net to get the puck when Edmonton forward Victor Arvidsson tripped him, sending McNabb crashing into the boards. The hit was 17 seconds before Draisaitl’s goal, but no call was made.

    Cassidy didn’t sugarcoat it after the game.

    “Listen, Gord’s (Dwyer) looking at it,” Cassidy said, referring to the ref. “He blew it, he missed the call. I don’t know what else to say. I mean, it’s a can opener trip, it’s a dirty play, it’s all of that—but it didn’t get called, so you’ve got to keep playing.”

    He was mad not just because of the missed call but because it directly affected the outcome of the game. The Oilers now lead 2-0 heading back to Edmonton for Game 3.

    What Happened During the Play?

    Replays showed Arvidsson stick him and trip McNabb and he loses control and hits the boards. While it wasn’t a penalty according to the refs, many thought it was at least a minor.

    For Cassidy, it’s not just about one play – it’s about how these calls (or non-calls) can swing the momentum of a game, especially in the NHL playoffs.

    Looking Ahead to Game 3

    With the series shifting to Edmonton for Game 3 on Saturday, the Golden Knights are in a tough spot. Down 2-0 to the defending Western Conference champs, they need to dig deep and overcome the Oilers and their own frustration.

    And to make matters worse, there are injury concerns – will McNabb be able to play after hitting the boards? And will Cassidy get league discipline for his post-game comments, which could come with fines or other penalties?

    But Cassidy is confident his team can bounce back. He’s a resilient coach, and he’ll push his players to channel their anger into performance on the ice.

  • Bruins Legend Patrice Bergeron Receives Huge NHL Honor

    Bruins Legend Patrice Bergeron Receives Huge NHL Honor

    The Boston Bruins are celebrating another big milestone for one of their all-time greats. On Friday, Bruins legend Patrice Bergeron was named to the NHL’s Quarter-Century Team, joining teammate Zdeno Chara in this exclusive group. This is a testament to Bergeron’s incredible skill but also his leadership and commitment to the game over two decades.

    A Well-Deserved Recognition

    Patrice Bergeron being on the NHL Quarter-Century Team puts him in the same company as the best of his generation. One of seven players who debuted between 2000 and 2010, Bergeron is a six-time Selke Trophy winner — an NHL record that proves he’s one of the best defensive forwards in league history.

    But that’s not all. Bergeron also won the Mark Messier Leadership Award (2021), the King Clancy Memorial Trophy (2013), and the NHL Foundation Player Award (2014). And let’s not forget the big one: he won the Stanley Cup with the Bruins in 2011.

    In a statement released by the Bruins, Bergeron said:

    “Being named to the NHL’s Quarter-Century Team is an amazing honor — I accept with gratitude and humility. This is not just about me, but about all the people who supported me and believed in me along the way.”

    He went on to thank his teammates, coaches, trainers and family for their roles in his success.

    “More than anything, I’m thankful for the memories and friendships for life that this game has given me.”

    Marchand’s Tribute to Bergeron

    Marchand also had some kind words about Bergeron in the release. Marchand talked about Bergeron’s unmatched leadership and team-first mentality:

    “The amount of time and effort he puts into making sure every guy, every day is in the right headspace, feeling good about themselves… He’s always looking for ways to bring the group closer together and have us bond and build chemistry.”

    Marchand added, on Bergeron’s ability to lift the team:

    “That’s not something that happens overnight. That’s a gift.”

    Marchand’s words sum up what makes Bergeron so special – not just his talent, but his selflessness and commitment to building a winning culture within the Bruins organization.

    Why Is This So Big?

    The NHL Quarter-Century Team is the top players from the last 25 years, divided by their debut eras. Bergeron joins Zdeno Chara, who is from the pre-2000 era, as one of the two Bruins on the team. Together they represent the legacy of the franchise.

    For Bergeron, this is a generational player whose impact goes beyond the numbers. His leadership, consistency and sportsmanship sets the standard for future players to follow.

    The Legacy Continues

    The NHL is revealing the final 12 members of the Quarter-Century Team this weekend and Bergeron’s inclusion is a reminder of his staying power. Whether it’s the Selke Trophy records or bringing the Cup to Boston, Bergeron is the definition of professionalism and excellence.

    You can be proud Bruins fans, your captain’s legacy will be in the record books forever.

  • Ex-Bruins Defenseman Torey Krug Not Expected to Play Again in NHL

    Ex-Bruins Defenseman Torey Krug Not Expected to Play Again in NHL

    The St. Louis Blues got some bad news on Tuesday as general manager Doug Armstrong said veteran defenseman Torey Krug is unlikely to play again due to a severe ankle injury he suffered last summer. The announcement came at the team’s end of season press conference and puts a damper on what has been a great career for the former Boston Bruin.

    A Career at Risk After Years of Battling Injury

    Armstrong told reporters: “I talked to him, he was at the rink the other day and he’s just getting almost normal day-to-day living with his leg, his ankle. So I’m not expecting him to play again.”

    The surgery he had was very, very invasive so there’s not much hope for a comeback. Both Armstrong and Krug are hopeful but reality says otherwise.

    Krug himself explained the injury: “I broke my ankle six years ago in the playoffs when I was with Boston. Over the last few years it’s been getting worse and worse. I’ve been able to manage it for so long now. Last year was definitely tough, trying to manage the pain level.”

    The Injury That Changed Everything

    He told us the injury dates back to the 2018 playoffs when he was still with the Bruins.

    “I broke my ankle six years ago now in the playoffs when I was with Boston,” Krug said. “Over the last few years it’s been getting worse and worse.”

    For years he managed the pain and played through it but last year was the worst. He couldn’t keep up with the physical demands of the NHL and this summer the pain was too much.

    “This summer I wasn’t really able to do the things I needed to do to prepare for the NHL season,” Krug said. “A lot of pain and stuff.”

    After more than six weeks of rehab he decided to have surgery to address the “pre-arthritic changes” in his ankle. Unfortunately it’s left him with an uncertain future on the ice.

    A Storied NHL Career Comes to a Close

    Krug’s career has been pretty amazing. Since breaking in with the Bruins, he’s been one of the most dynamic offensive defensemen of his era. Over 778 games with Boston and St. Louis he’s put up: 89 goals and 394 assists for 483 points.

    In 2020, he signed a 7 year, $45.5 million deal with the Blues in free agency – a move that showed he was committed to helping St. Louis be competitive. But injuries have derailed most of his time with the team.

    If Krug doesn’t come back to the ice, his career will be over after he fulfills the first 4 years of his contract. He’ll be on long term injured reserve (LTIR) for the last 2 years of his deal and will have a $6.5 million cap hit until it expires in 2027. At that point he can retire and be remembered as one of the best blue liners of his generation.

    What’s Next for the Blues?

    With Krug’s future uncertain, the Blues will have to figure out what to do with the rest of his contract. If they want to free up roster space they can trade his deal to a cap strapped team that needs LTIR space.

    But, even if Krug never plays again, his impact on the ice and in the locker room will be loved by teammates, coaches and fans.

  • Why These 8 Players Are Perfect Fits for the Bruins in 2025?

    Why These 8 Players Are Perfect Fits for the Bruins in 2025?

    For the first time in over a decade, the Boston Bruins are set to pick in the top 10 of the NHL Draft. After a rough 2024-25 season, the Bruins are hoping to land a blue chip talent to turn things around. With the draft lottery coming up, here’s a look at eight prospects who could be a fit for the Bruins.

    Michael Misa, C, Saginaw Spirit (OHL)

    If the Bruins get lucky and get a top two pick, Michael Misa could be the answer to their center problem.

    • Why He Fits: Misa is a dynamic offensive player who can score and create. 134 points (62 goals, 72 assists) in 65 games last season is elite. Compared to Steven Stamkos and Brayden Point, Misa has the hockey IQ and skill to be a franchise center.
    • Impact on Boston: Misa would give the Bruins a top six center who can drive the power play and penalty kill. 6-foot-1, 184 pounds, he’s got room to grow physically, but already has video game like stats.

    Matthew Schaefer, D, Erie Otters (OHL)

    If the Bruins get the No. 1 overall pick, Matthew Schaefer might be too good to pass up—even if they need a center more.

    • Why He Fits: Schaefer is a smooth-skating, two-way defenseman with elite offensive upside. Even with missing part of the season due to injury, he had 22 points in 17 games and was Erie’s best defenseman.
    • Impact on Boston: Pairing Schaefer with Charlie McAvoy would give the Bruins one of the best top defensive pairs in the NHL for years to come. While centers are a bigger need, Schaefer’s high ceiling makes him a nice option.

    James Hagens, C, Boston College (NCAA)

    Hagens might not be the sexy pick some fans want, but his skill set matches what the Bruins need.

    • Why He Fits: A faster skater than Jack Hughes, Hagens is known for his speed and playmaking. His freshman season wasn’t as explosive as expected but he had 37 points in 37 games against tough competition.
    • Impact on Boston: If available at 5-7, Hagens would bring immediate value as a future top-line center. His skating and vision makes him a versatile weapon who could play with Boston’s established scorers.

    Anton Frondell, C, Djurgardens (HockeyAllsvenskan)

    Frondell may not have the name recognition, but his pro-ready game makes him a safe yet exciting pick.

    • Why He Fits: The Swedish center dominated Sweden’s second-tier league, 25 points in 29 games—a historic feat for a U-18 player. Frondell has a heavy shot and is physical, a two-way forward.
    • Impact on Boston: As a shot-first center, Frondell could get into the NHL quicker than most prospects. His size (6-foot-1, 198 pounds) and skill checks all the boxes for a top-six role.

    Caleb Desnoyers, C, Moncton Wildcats (QMJHL)

    Desnoyers may not be flashy, but he’s reliable and all around.

    • Why He Fits: He’s a “safe” pick because of his well rounded game. 84 points in the regular season and 24 in the playoffs shows his consistency.
    • Impact on Boston: Not a top liner but his versatility and discipline makes him a Selke Trophy contender down the road. He’d be a second line center or shutdown role.

    Jake O’Brien, C, Brantford Bulldogs (OHL)

    O’Brien’s stock is rising and for good reason he’s a natural playmaker with untapped potential.

    • Why He Fits: 98 points in 66 games shows he can produce at a high level. His vision and passing ability stands out especially near the net.
    • Impact on Boston: Needs to work on his skating and add muscle but O’Brien’s creativity and finishing ability projects him as a top 6 forward in a few years.

    Roger McQueen, C, Brandon Wheat Kings (WHL)

    McQueen brings size and skill but durability and skating are concerns.

    • Why He Fits: 6’5” and hard to miss on the ice. Despite injuries this season he showed flashes of brilliance with 20 points in 17 games.
    • Impact on Boston: If McQueen becomes a reliable 2nd line center his size and skill would be a nightmare matchup for opponents. But his injury history is a red flag.

    Porter Martone, RW, Brampton Steelheads (OHL)

    Martone is a unique blend of grit and skill that would be a fan favorite in Boston.

    • Why He Fits: 6’3” and uses his body to win battles and finish plays. 98 points with Brampton shows he can dominate games physically and offensively.
    • Impact on Boston: Martone’s tenacity and scoring ability makes him a power forward. Even if he’s not their biggest need at center he’d be a big boost to the forward depth.