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  • Is David Pastrňák Part of the Problem? Bruins Coach Sturm Hints at Roster Shake-Up

    Is David Pastrňák Part of the Problem? Bruins Coach Sturm Hints at Roster Shake-Up

    The Boston Bruins aren’t just entering a new era — they’re trying to survive one.

    After a brutal 2024–25 season that saw them miss the playoffs entirely, the team made a coaching change, naming Marco Sturm as their new head coach for the 2025–26 campaign. The pressure is on — not just to win, but to rebuild identity, restore culture, and fix glaring weaknesses.

    And one of those weaknesses? The power play.

    At 15.2%, Boston’s man-advantage unit ranked fourth-worst in the league last season — a shocking development for a franchise known for its special teams dominance. That poor performance came despite having David Pastrňák, one of the most lethal scorers in the league, anchoring the top of the PP depth chart.

    Now, under Sturm, expectations are changing — and so is the approach.

    Sturm’s Staff Signals a Shift in Strategy

    Sturm wasted no time assembling his coaching staff, retaining key assistants Jay Leach and Chris Kelly, along with goaltending coach Bob Essensa.

    But the real move that caught attention was still pending — the search for a third assistant, specifically someone with power play experience.

    As Sturm told reporter Scott McLaughlin:

    “We’re looking for someone who can help us improve on the power play.”

    That’s not just a minor tweak — it’s a direct acknowledgment that the unit needs an overhaul.

    And if the power play changes, then every player on it — including Pastrňák — will be evaluated.

    Pastrňák: Star or Scapegoat?

    Let’s get one thing straight — Pastrňák isn’t the problem. He’s been one of the league’s most consistent goal-scorers since joining the league, racking up 122 power play goals since the 2014–15 season — the most by any Bruin during that span.

    But here’s the twist: having a great scorer doesn’t mean you have a great power play.

    Despite Pastrňák’s elite finishing ability, Boston struggled to generate clean looks, sustained zone time, and puck movement. Too often, the unit looked stagnant, predictable, and easily neutralized.

    This isn’t about blaming him — it’s about recognizing that even stars need systems that work for them. And right now, the system isn’t delivering.

    Under Sturm, that could change.

    The Power Play Problem – And What It Means

    For the first time since the 2014–15 season, the Bruins finished in the bottom half of the league in power play percentage.

    Even worse? Their 15.2% success rate barely edged out the disaster-level units from years past — like the 14.8% clip they hit back in 2012–13, a shortened lockout season.

    So what gives?

    A lack of structure. Inconsistent chemistry. And yes — too much reliance on individual talent instead of execution and creativity.

    Fixing this could require more than just a new assistant. It might also involve lineup changes, new personnel, and possibly even a shift in philosophy when it comes to how Boston deploys its offensive firepower.

    And that could place Pastrňák — Boston’s leading scorer and face of the franchise — in unfamiliar territory.

    Why This Could Mean Big Changes for Pastrňák

    Pastrňák has always thrived in front of the net, using his quick release and nose for the crease to score big goals. But in today’s NHL, power plays are evolving.

    They rely on movement, deception, and creative puck distribution — things that don’t always suit Pastrňák’s style.

    Enter Sturm’s new assistant — whoever lands the job will likely push for a more modern setup. One that spreads the ice, forces defenders to make choices, and rewards vision and puck control.

    If that happens, Pastrňák may find himself adapting — or being asked to take a step back in favor of players who fit better within a restructured attack.

    Does that mean he’s part of the problem?

    No. But it does mean his role might be shifting — and fast.

    Rebuilding Isn’t Just About Wins — It’s About Fit

    Marco Sturm didn’t come to Boston to preserve the status quo. He came to fix what’s broken — starting with the power play.

    And while Pastrňák remains a critical piece of the puzzle, the arrival of a new coach, a new assistant, and a new mindset means nothing is guaranteed.

    Fans may not want to hear it — but sometimes, the brightest stars shine brightest when the system around them works best.

    And if Sturm’s plan requires shaking things up, don’t be surprised if Pastrňák finds himself in a different kind of spotlight — one where his adaptability, not just his scoring, defines his value.

  • Bruins Make Quiet Coaching Move That Could Pay Off Big Time

    Bruins Make Quiet Coaching Move That Could Pay Off Big Time

    The Boston Bruins won’t see any additional coaching departures this offseason after appointing Marco Sturm as their new head coach, general manager Don Sweeney confirmed to the Boston Globe’s Jim McBride.

    This decision brings a sense of continuity to an organization that has been through its fair share of change. Alongside Sturm, assistants Chris Kelly, Jay Leach, and goalie coach Bob Essensa will form the core of his first support staff in Boston — a group that offers both experience and familiarity with the team’s culture.

    But while most of the current assistant staff is staying put, the Bruins are still looking to make one more addition — a third assistant to replace Joe Sacco, who recently left for a role with the New York Rangers under Mike Sullivan.

    The Departure of Joe Sacco

    Sacco had served as interim head coach for the 2024 season following Jim Montgomery’s firing, and over the years, he played a key role in shaping the Bruins’ penalty kill, one of the best in the league during his time on the bench.

    Now, with Sacco gone, the team is tasked with finding someone who can step into a similar role, especially with the need to revamp their struggling special teams unit.

    “We’re going to look to bring in a third assistant,” Sweeney said. “Joe was part of our staff for a long time, but we had to move forward.”

    Sacco now joins Mike Sullivan’s staff in New York, leaving behind a legacy of defensive excellence and a big void to fill.

    Jay Leach’s Future and the Coaching Carousel

    One of the most interesting storylines from this coaching update is the future of Jay Leach, who was among the final candidates for the head coaching job.

    It’s not unusual for assistant coaches to seek new opportunities after being interviewed for a head coaching position, especially if they weren’t promoted.

    Leach remained with the team despite missing out on the top job, and his continued presence could help ease the transition for Sturm as he steps into his new role.

    “Keeping Leach around gives us some stability and helps with the cultural fit,” Sweeney added.

    That kind of internal consistency may be exactly what the Bruins need as they begin a new chapter under Sturm.

    The Penalty Kill Role: A Critical Piece

    The opening created by Sacco’s departure is expected to go to someone who can focus heavily on the penalty kill — a unit that saw a sharp decline in performance last season.

    Over the past 11 seasons, the penalty kill under Sacco ranked second in the NHL at 82.8%, trailing only the Carolina Hurricanes (84.2%). But in 2024, the Bruins fell to 24th in the league with just 76.3% success — a drop that needs addressing.

    Whoever steps into that role will have big shoes to fill. It’s a high-impact position, and getting it right could mean the difference between playoff success and another early exit.

    Potential Candidates for the Assistant Coach Role

    While no name has been officially linked yet, there are a few intriguing possibilities.

    Greg Cronin, former head coach of the Anaheim Ducks, has already expressed interest in joining the Bruins’ staff. Known for his detailed approach to special teams, Cronin could be a perfect fit for the penalty kill-focused role.

    Other names in play include Dave Lowry, who spent time with the Seattle Kraken, and Brent Thompson, previously with the Ducks. Both are experienced hands with strong special-teams backgrounds and could bring a fresh perspective to the table.

    Finding the right person to complement the existing staff will be crucial, especially if the Bruins want to improve their shorthanded defense and return to championship contention.

    Final Thoughts: A Smart, Strategic Move

    On the surface, this might seem like a quiet coaching shakeup. But when you dig deeper, it reveals a smart, strategic plan from Don Sweeney and Marco Sturm.

    By keeping familiar faces in place and targeting a specialist for the penalty kill, the Bruins are striking a balance between stability and specialization, two critical elements in building a winning culture.

    If the right hire comes in, this could be a move that pays off big time come playoff time next spring.

    For now, all eyes are on how this new coaching trio — and whoever fills the fourth spot — will shape the identity of the 2025 Bruins.

  • Is a Bruins Rebuild Coming? Marco Sturm Era Starts Amid Uncertainty

    Is a Bruins Rebuild Coming? Marco Sturm Era Starts Amid Uncertainty

    Change has officially arrived in Boston. The Boston Bruins have named Marco Sturm as their next head coach, closing the book on an extensive coaching search and signaling the start of a new era behind the bench.

    Sturm, who earned the role over finalists Jay Leach and Mitch Love, is stepping into a franchise at a crossroads. With playoff expectations lingering but no clear blueprint for success, his hiring sets the tone for what promises to be one of the most important offseasons in recent Bruins history.

    This isn’t just about a new coach — it’s about laying the foundation for what comes next.

    Sturm Separates Himself in the Final Round

    The Bruins were deliberate in their search, evaluating multiple candidates and weighing both experience and vision for the team’s future.

    In the end, it was Sturm who stood out.

    His background as a former player, combined with strong development work in the minors and international hockey, gave him a unique edge. He impressed during final interviews, presenting a clear plan for how he wants to shape the team’s identity under pressure and structure.

    It wasn’t just about systems or strategy — it was about leadership, culture, and direction.

    And for a team still searching for consistency after last year’s uneven campaign, those intangibles mattered.

    End of the Joe Sacco Chapter

    With Sturm’s arrival, the Joe Sacco era has come to a close.

    Sacco served as interim head coach for part of the season, but despite pockets of improvement, his tenure didn’t provide the spark the Bruins were hoping for.

    He will not return to the organization in any capacity, marking a clean break from the past.

    Meanwhile, Jay Leach, another finalist for the job, may remain with the team as an assistant coach. Sources indicate the Bruins value his presence in the locker room and believe his defensive knowledge can help ease the transition under Sturm.

    That blend of fresh ideas and familiar voices could be exactly what Boston needs right now.

    Roster Moves: The Next Big Test

    Now that the coaching picture is set, the Bruins must turn their attention to the roster — starting with Morgan Geekie.

    After a breakout season that saw him score 33 goals and 57 points, the 26-year-old center has become one of the team’s most valuable assets. And with free agency looming, keeping him in Boston is now a top priority.

    Geekie is just one year away from unrestricted free agency, meaning this summer could bring either a long-term commitment or a bridge deal designed to keep him in place while the team sorts out its broader direction.

    Recent comparable deals give us some clues.

    Noah Cates recently signed a four-year, $16 million contract — and he put up fewer points than Geekie did this season. Meanwhile, Matt Coronato’s seven-year, $45.5 million deal offers a potential long-term framework if the Bruins decide to lock him in for the future.

    Either way, one thing is clear: Morgan Geekie isn’t getting cheaper, and Boston knows it.

    What Does This Mean for the Future?

    So where do the Bruins go from here?

    They’re not fully tearing things down — not yet. But they’re also not all-in on chasing a Stanley Cup this season without more clarity around the roster.

    Sturm’s hiring suggests a middle path: build stability, develop young players, and make smart, calculated moves to stay competitive while figuring out which veterans remain central to the plan.

    If they can re-sign Geekie and add depth through free agency or trades, they’ll remain a playoff contender. If not, the path gets rockier — and the talk of a full-on rebuild might grow louder.

    Final Thought: A Fresh Start With Big Questions

    Marco Sturm’s hiring brings energy and optimism to Boston. But optimism alone won’t win games.

    The real test begins now — with roster decisions, chemistry building, and a coaching staff that needs to prove it can lead this team forward.

    Whether the Bruins are entering a rebuild, a reload, or something in between remains to be seen.

    But one thing is certain: the era of uncertainty is just beginning — and Marco Sturm is at the helm.

  • Why the Boston Bruins Should Avoid Signing That 100-Point Free Agent?

    Why the Boston Bruins Should Avoid Signing That 100-Point Free Agent?

    As July 1 approaches, the Boston Bruins find themselves in a familiar position: cap space to spend, needs to fill, and big names on the market. Among them is Mitch Marner, fresh off his first 100-point season and expected to be one of the most sought-after forwards in free agency.

    But just because he’s available doesn’t mean the Bruins should go all-in.

    While Marner dazzles with regular-season production, concerns about his playoff performance—and Boston’s past mistakes—should give fans and management pause.

    Marner’s Regular Season Brilliance vs. Playoff Questions

    Let’s get one thing straight—Mitch Marner can flat-out play.

    Over the last eight seasons, he’s been among the league’s elite offensive talents. Last year, he hit a career-high 27 goals and 75 assists, earning his first 100-point campaign. His vision, puck-handling, and playmaking are top-tier.

    But when the games matter most, the story changes.

    In 13 playoff games this past season, Marner scored just two goals. Sure, he added 11 assists, but timing and impact matter in the postseason. And this isn’t the first time his production has dipped when the pressure’s on.

    Toronto’s early exits have often come with questions aimed at Marner’s ability to carry a team through deep playoff runs. For a Bruins squad looking to make real noise, that inconsistency is a red flag.

    Boston Already Paid the Price for Flash Over Fit

    The Bruins tried this before.

    Last summer, they committed significant cap space to Elias Lindholm, hoping he’d become the second-line center they desperately needed. The move was supposed to elevate their depth and provide scoring balance.

    It didn’t work out.

    Lindholm struggled to find chemistry, underperformed expectations, and ultimately became a trade chip. The Bruins wasted precious cap room and momentum chasing a name instead of building strategically.

    Now, with another high-profile forward on the market, Boston risks repeating history—only this time, the price could be even steeper.

    The Cost Isn’t Just Financial – It’s Opportunity Lost

    Mitch Marner is expected to command a contract worth between $13–14 million annually. With around $28 million in cap space, that kind of deal would eat up nearly half of Boston’s budget.

    For one player.

    That’s not just expensive—it’s limiting.

    What about re-signing internal free agents? What about filling holes on defense or adding depth scoring? Locking into a long-term, high-dollar deal for a player whose playoff track record is shaky could derail the entire rebuild plan.

    This team doesn’t need a flashy headline. It needs structure, depth, and smart investments.

    There Are Better Ways to Build a Winner

    The Bruins don’t need another marquee name. They need pieces that fit.

    Marner might thrive elsewhere—maybe a change of scenery reignites his fire. But Boston shouldn’t be the team rolling the dice on that possibility.

    Instead, GM Don Sweeney should focus on affordable, impactful additions that support the core already in place. Maybe target role players, defensive upgrades, or younger talent ready to step up.

    Winning in the NHL isn’t about who has the flashiest roster—it’s about who builds the strongest foundation.

    And for the Bruins, that means resisting temptation—even if it wears a 100-point stat line.

    Final Call: Stay Smart, Stay Balanced

    Mitch Marner is a great player. No doubt about it.

    But greatness doesn’t always translate to playoff success, especially when the stakes are highest. And for a Bruins team still finding its footing after a rocky season, now isn’t the time to gamble again.

    They’ve learned the hard way what happens when you chase headlines instead of hockey sense.

    Let someone else sign the 100-point star.

    The Bruins should focus on building something better, not bigger.

  • Brad Marchand Reflects on Leaving Boston and Finding Redemption in Florida

    Brad Marchand Reflects on Leaving Boston and Finding Redemption in Florida

    Brad Marchand’s NHL journey took a dramatic turn this year, one that left him grappling with emotions he hadn’t faced in his storied career. For over a decade, the fiery forward was synonymous with the Boston Bruins, wearing the spoked-B with pride and passion. But when contract talks stalled and tensions rose, the unthinkable happened: the Bruins moved on, trading their longtime captain to the Florida Panthers ahead of another playoff push.

    Marchand, now 37, admitted this week that leaving Boston wasn’t easy. “It was frustrating and stressful,” he said, reflecting on the emotional toll of the situation. For someone who had never dealt with such uncertainty in his professional life, the weight of the team’s struggles and his looming free agency became overwhelming. The mental grind of watching negotiations drag on, and ultimately seeing himself traded, was something Marchand openly admits he didn’t handle well at first.

    Panthers Find Perfect Fit in Veteran Leader

    Despite the rocky start to his transition, Marchand has quickly found his footing with the Panthers. Known for his relentless energy, edge, and leadership, he’s brought exactly what a playoff-caliber team needs. It didn’t take long for teammates to recognize his value, not just as a player but as a mentor and stabilizing force in the locker room.

    Florida captain Aleksander Barkov, who had previously clashed with Marchand in back-to-back postseason series, shared how different it feels to have him on the same side. “He brings so much intensity and experience,” Barkov said. “Having him here changes things.”

    Marchand’s presence has been felt both on and off the ice. His fiery competitiveness rubs off on younger players, while his veteran wisdom helps them navigate the high-pressure environment of deep playoff runs. For a Panthers team hungry for success, Marchand’s arrival couldn’t have come at a better time.

    Admitting Flaws and Learning from Adversity

    Off the ice, Marchand has been candid about the challenges he faced during this transitional period. Known for his emotional play style, he acknowledged that the business side of hockey got the better of him. “I let it get to me,” he admitted. “The uncertainty, the lack of control—it was tough.”

    But adversity has a way of teaching lessons, and Marchand is embracing this new chapter with a fresh perspective. He understands the sacrifices required to reach the pinnacle of the sport and knows what it takes to win. This time around, he’s channeling those lessons into fuel for the Panthers’ championship aspirations.

    Redemption on the Horizon?

    The road from Boston to Florida wasn’t smooth, but Marchand is determined to make the most of his new opportunity. With the Panthers, he’s found a team that values his contributions and gives him a chance to chase another Stanley Cup.

    Marchand reflected on last year’s Stanley Cup Finals, which he watched from home after an early playoff exit with the Bruins. “It was hard sitting there, knowing I wanted to be part of that,” he said. Now, he’s back where he belongs—in the thick of the action, fighting for glory with a group of players who share his determination.

  • Mitch Marner Targeted by Bruins? Maple Leafs Insider Says It’s Possible

    Mitch Marner Targeted by Bruins? Maple Leafs Insider Says It’s Possible

    The Boston Bruins have plenty of work to do this offseason when it comes to righting the wrongs rooted in a miserable 2024-25 season. With more than $26 million in cap space, could the team allocate most of that spending power toward the top free agent on the market: Toronto star Mitch Marner?

    As jarring as it would be to see Marner don a black-and-gold sweater after years spent battling Boston in the postseason, Maple Leafs writer James Mirtle isn’t discounting the Bruins as a viable contender for Marner’s services this summer.

    In a ranking of Marner’s 32 possible destinations, Mirtle tabbed the Carolina Hurricanes, Los Angeles Kings, Utah, and Vegas as the “most likely fits” in the pursuit of Marner.

    But after those four, Mirtle also listed the Boston Bruins among the teams in the next tier vying for the winger, alongside the Ducks, Blackhawks, Avalanche, Blue Jackets, Red Wings, Panthers, Predators, Sharks, and Lightning.

    “It was certainly a lost season in Boston this year, but do they try and pull a Capitals and retool quickly? Between David Pastrnak, Charlie McAvoy, and Jeremy Swayman, they have a lot of strong pieces in place, so scorched earth doesn’t seem like the way to go,” Mirtle wrote.

    “It would be a bit of a heel turn for Marner, given they’re such a big rival in the division, but I don’t think we can rule it out entirely just on that basis. They certainly have the cap room after their big sell-off before the deadline.”

    A 2% Chance for Marner to Stay with the Leafs

    Mirtle tabbed Marner returning to the Maple Leafs as a “2 percent chance” of happening this summer. The winger is set to command one of the heftiest contracts in NHL history if he goes to market, and his inability to put the Maple Leafs over the top in the postseason might frighten some teams — and fanbases — from investing heavily in the forward.

    But, there are a few instances where a superstar in his prime, like Marner (who turned 28 in May), is up for grabs for whichever team is willing to pony up the cash.

    Marner Could Be the Missing Piece

    If Marner was interested in joining the Bruins, he’d serve as a much-needed remedy for a team in desperate need of skill and scoring punch.

    Much like how David Pastrnak was driving his line alongside Elias Lindholm and Morgan Geekie in 2024-25, a fellow right wing in Marner could anchor his top-six line in Boston — even if his supporting cast (Pavel Zacha? Casey Mittelstadt?) might be a work in progress on a retooling Bruins roster.

    Amid all the negative labels that Marner might carry as a smaller, skilled player whose playoff credentials might not pop, he’d address several needs for the Bruins.

    What Marner Brings to the Table?

    Marner — who has four 90-plus point seasons on his resume — posted a career-high 102 points this season with Toronto, and is one of the better playmakers on the power play in recent years (33 points on the man advantage last season).

    The 6-foot winger is also a weapon on the penalty kill and outside of the offensive zone, as he paced all Toronto forwards in average shorthanded ice time (2:14) this past year while leading all NHL forwards in takeaways (56).

    A Strategic Investment or a Risky Move?

    While the Bruins could be better served turning what could be a $12–15 million a year annual payout to Marner into 2–3 other players, the idea of adding another franchise fixture to the lineup is tempting.

    With the offseason still early, fans are already speculating about what the Bruins’ future looks like — and if Marner is truly in play, it could be the biggest move of the summer.

    Whether it happens or not, one thing is clear: the Bruins are looking to make a splash in free agency, and Marner is at the top of the list.

  • Is This Ducks Rookie the Missing Piece for the Boston Bruins?

    Is This Ducks Rookie the Missing Piece for the Boston Bruins?

    After a brutal 2024-25 season, it is apparent that the Boston Bruins should be looking to bring in new talent this summer. This is especially true when noting that they traded away several of their key players at the trade deadline and have plenty of cap space to work with.

    With the offseason now underway, the focus is shifting to what the team can do to rebuild and improve. One area where the Bruins need immediate help is their top six forwards, and one name that stands out as a potential fit is Mason McTavish.

    Why McTavish Could Be a Perfect Fit?

    McTavish, 22, is a pending restricted free agent this summer, and he is precisely the kind of player the Bruins should consider targeting with an offer sheet. If successfully brought in, he would give the Bruins a long-term notable boost at center, which is undoubtedly a massive need.

    But that’s not all — McTavish can also play the wing, so he could help the Bruins’ depth on the second line or in the bottom six as well. His versatility makes him even more appealing.

    If not through an offer sheet, he could also make sense as a trade target for the Bruins. However, with McTavish being a young center with good upside, it would undoubtedly cost the Bruins a significant trade offer to bring him to Boston.

    A Rising Star with Proven Production

    McTavish is coming off a strong 2024-25 season with the Ducks, setting new career highs with 22 goals, 30 assists, 52 points, and 70 hits in 76 games. It was a nice step in the right direction for the 2021 third-round pick, but there is reason to believe that he still can hit another level.

    This only adds to his appeal. With his physical game, scoring touch, and ability to play multiple positions, he could immediately contribute to the Bruins’ offensive depth and provide a much-needed spark.

    The Bruins’ Need for a New Center

    The Bruins’ center position has been a major issue over the past few seasons. With the loss of key players like Marchand and Coyle, Boston needs someone who can step in and take control of the middle of the ice.

    McTavish fits that bill. He’s young, hungry, and ready to prove himself at the next level. If the Ducks are open to trading him, or if he becomes a restricted free agent, the Bruins should seriously consider making a move.

    What This Means for the Bruins

    If the Bruins are serious about rebuilding, they need to look beyond the usual suspects and consider players like McTavish, who can fill a role and grow with the team.

    He may not be a household name just yet, but his performance this season and potential for growth make him a valuable asset for any team looking to add a young, physical forward.

    With the right development, McTavish could become a key piece in the Bruins’ plans.

  • Narrowed Coaching Search, Alleged Voter Fraud, and a Possible Blockbuster Trade

    Narrowed Coaching Search, Alleged Voter Fraud, and a Possible Blockbuster Trade

    After what has turned into a long and exhausting search for the next head coach of the Boston Bruins, we could be getting some closure as to who the next bench boss will be. General manager Don Sweeney has reportedly narrowed his search down to a couple of names, with one name being told he was no longer under consideration, according to an NHL insider.

    On his latest 32 Thoughts podcast, Elliotte Friedman reported that the Bruins informed interim coach Joe Sacco that he was no longer under consideration for the job. That may be the least surprising news to come out of this drawn-out, long search.

    Pierre LeBrun of The Athletic also reported on Monday that the Bruins are expected to name their next head coach early this week. Marco Strum, Jay Woodcroft, and Mitch Love continue to be the names being circled in rumors.

    While the coaching search is narrowing, fans are still waiting for the final decision, and there’s still talk of possible trades and roster changes as well.

    A Surprise in the Selke Trophy Voting

    Elias Lindholm, despite a brutal first season in Boston, surprisingly received Selke Trophy votes, according to Chris Johnston of The Athletic.

    File this under “What are we even doing here?” Lindholm got one vote, which seems baffling given how he performed during the 2024-25 season. He was criticized for his play and struggled through injuries, but he did show signs of improvement toward the end of the year.

    This unexpected nod from the voting panel has left many scratching their heads, especially considering the team’s struggles and Lindholm’s performance.

    Trade Rumors Continue to Circle Jeremy Swayman

    According to David Pagontta of The Fourth Period, the Edmonton Oilers called the Bruins this season to see if they were looking to move their new $66 million goalie, Jeremy Swayman.

    Sweeney did not entertain the idea, but don’t expect this to be the last time this summer that we hear a rumor that teams are calling to see if the former University of Maine star will be moved.

    The Oilers are doing fine with Stuart Skinner between the pipes as they are in their second straight Stanley Cup Final against the Florida Panthers. They may have missed their chance to get one of Boston’s goalies when Linus Ullmark was shipped to the Ottawa Senators last summer. That should have been their target.

    Could There Be Voter Fraud?

    Amid all the coaching speculation and trade rumors, there are also whispers of alleged voter fraud, though the details remain unclear.

    Whether it’s about the coaching hiring process or something else, the mention of such claims adds another layer of intrigue to an already complicated offseason for the Bruins.

    Fans are eager for clarity, and with the coaching search nearing its end, it’s possible these allegations could come to light soon.

    What’s Next for the Bruins?

    With the coaching search finally narrowing, the focus is shifting to what the Bruins might do next. Will they make a bold move? Could they pull off a blockbuster trade?

    For now, the coaching hire is the biggest story, but with rumors of potential deals and questions around the process, the offseason is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing in recent years.

    As the NHL playoffs approach, the Bruins find themselves in a crucial position, and the decisions made in the coming weeks could define their future.

  • Could the Bruins Make a Big Play for a Rising Ranger?

    Could the Bruins Make a Big Play for a Rising Ranger?

    After trading away Brad Marchand, Charlie Coyle, and Trent Frederic, the Boston Bruins are heading into a crucial offseason with serious holes to fill up front.

    With core pieces gone, the team requires a new identity — one that’s physical, gritty, and capable of contributing immediately.

    While unrestricted free agents like Mitch Marner and Brock Boeser will dominate headlines, the Bruins might be eyeing a different path: targeting a restricted free agent who fits their style of play and can bring energy to the roster.

    Young Power Forward Emerging as a Dark Horse Target

    Among the restricted free agents on the market, few are more intriguing than New York Rangers winger Will Cuylle.

    At 23, Cuylle is still early in his NHL career, but the way he plays already aligns with Boston’s DNA.

    A 6-foot-4 forward who doesn’t shy away from contact, Cuylle is the kind of gritty, physical presence the Bruins lacked after shedding multiple core pieces at the trade deadline.

    His physical edge, paired with a breakout season, raises eyebrows among scouts and analysts alike.

    Cuylle’s Breakout Season Speaks Volumes

    Coming off a strong year with the Rangers, Cuylle put up 20 goals, 25 assists, and 45 points while playing all 82 games.

    That alone is a solid progression for a young forward, but it’s his league-leading 301 hits that truly stand out.

    He didn’t just show up — he made opponents feel him shift after shift. That kind of presence would immediately make Boston harder to play against again.

    And with the Bruins needing both production and edge in their middle six, Cuylle could be a seamless fit.

    Versatility Makes Him More Than Just a Power Forward

    Cuylle has the tools to impact the game in multiple ways.

    His strength down low and willingness to battle in front of the net make him a possible power-play option.

    On the flip side, his commitment to defense and high motor could give the Bruins another penalty-kill asset.

    He’s not a one-dimensional hitter — he’s rounding into a true two-way forward with upside.

    Boston Has Cap Space — And a Unique Opportunity

    The Bruins have positioned themselves well cap-wise, which opens the door to more creative acquisitions.

    Offer sheets are rare, but in Cuylle’s case, it could be a worthwhile gamble. He’s still young, controllable, and appears to be trending upward.

    In a post-Marchand era, Boston needs new identity pieces, and Cuylle already plays like one.

    This Could Be the Swing Boston Needs

    Cuylle’s age, style, and growth curve make him a fascinating possibility for a Bruins team in transition.

    He hits, scores, and battles in the hard areas — a combination that’s becoming harder to find.

    Boston has the flexibility, the need is clear, and the fit? Almost too perfect to ignore.

    If the Bruins want to shake things up and get younger without sacrificing identity, a well-timed offer sheet for Will Cuylle might be the most Bruins-like move they could make.

  • Brad Marchand Reveals Why He Left the Bruins – It Wasn’t Just About the Money

    Brad Marchand Reveals Why He Left the Bruins – It Wasn’t Just About the Money

    Brad Marchand is chasing a Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers, but just a few months ago, he was the captain of the Boston Bruins, the only team he had ever played for before last March.

    Now 37 years old, Marchand is playing out the final season of an eight-year, $49 million contract and will become an unrestricted free agent this summer. That’s a scenario he had hoped to avoid altogether, as he revealed in a recent interview with Amalie Benjamin of NHL.com.

    Marchand spoke about how playing in a contract year shaped his mindset during this season. He admitted that the absence of a long-term deal changed the way he approached the game, shifting his focus from a team-first mentality to something more personal.

    “I didn’t really want to play contract years out because I never really wanted to have that stress,” Marchand said. “I always wanted the security of maybe take a little less and you get a deal done early, and you have the security of it being done and you can just worry about playing hockey.”

    The Pressure of a Contract Year

    Marchand explained that not having that security affected his priorities, making him approach the game in a more “selfish” way than if he had already secured his future.

    “I find when you go into a season playing (without a future contract), things matter,” Marchand said. “Your stats matter more. So, it doesn’t just become about the team. When you’re on term and you’re on a contract, it can be all about the team and you can sacrifice whatever you need to be part of the team.

    “But in contract years, you can’t do that. You have to be a little bit selfish.”

    This admission offers fans a rare glimpse into the mental toll of being under contract, especially for a veteran like Marchand, who had spent nearly his entire career in Boston.

    The Bruins Trade: A Necessary Move

    The Bruins failed to reach a new deal with Marchand before the season, and ultimately, they traded him to the Panthers at the trade deadline in exchange for a conditional second-round pick.

    While many assumed the move was purely financial, Marchand made it clear that the decision wasn’t just about money — it was about how he felt about his role and his future.

    He emphasized that the lack of a long-term commitment altered his perspective, leading him to focus more on individual performance than on team success.

    No Farewell, Just a New Chapter

    Despite the uncertainty of his future, with no contract once his current deal ends later this month, Marchand isn’t treating this run as a farewell.

    “I hope it’s not [my last],” Marchand said. “But realistically, I have a few years left. Hopefully I can have another run, but if not, hopefully I can take advantage of this one.”

    His comments show that while the transition to the Panthers was difficult, he’s still focused on what lies ahead — whether it’s a playoff run or a potential return to Boston in the future.

    What This Means for the Bruins?

    Marchand’s departure marked a significant shift for the Boston Bruins, who were forced to move on from their captain after failing to extend his contract. His time in Boston was defined by leadership, grit, and a deep connection with the fanbase, but now, he’s trying to make a new impact in South Florida.

    As the NHL playoffs loom, fans are wondering if this is the end of an era for Marchand — or just the start of a new chapter.