Boston Bruins News, Schedule, Tickets, and History | Unofficial Fan Guide

Blog

  • Marchand Reveals Honest Reaction to Making Stanley Cup Final with Florida

    Marchand Reveals Honest Reaction to Making Stanley Cup Final with Florida

    It’s not every day that a 37-year-old veteran finds himself in unfamiliar threads, Marchand Reveals competing for hockey’s ultimate prize. But here’s Brad Marchand—longtime Boston Bruin, fan favorite, and now a key piece of the Florida Panthers’ playoff puzzle—preparing for his fourth career Stanley Cup Final.

    A New Chapter: Marchand Joins the Panthers

    After spending the first 16 seasons of his NHL career with the Boston Bruins, Marchand was traded to the Florida Panthers at the 2024 deadline. The move marked the end of an era in Beantown and the start of something entirely new for Marchand.

    What he didn’t expect? That it would lead him straight to the Stanley Cup Final.

    “I Definitely Didn’t Expect to Be Here in This Jersey”

    Fresh off Florida’s Game 5 series win over the Carolina Hurricanes, Marchand sat down with TNT’s Jackie Redmond. When asked how he’d have reacted if someone told him earlier this season that he’d be playing for the Cup—as a Panther—his response was honest and heartfelt.

    “You’re right, I definitely didn’t expect to be here in this jersey. But I’m very happy I am.”

    That sentiment speaks volumes—not just about Marchand’s journey, but also about the unpredictability of sports and life itself. After years of loyalty to one franchise, he found himself in a new city, new locker room, and new challenge.

    From Rookie Champion to Veteran Leader

    Marchand already has a Stanley Cup ring from his rookie season in 2011. He made two more trips with Boston—in 2013 and 2019—but came up short both times. Now, he’s got another shot, and he’s not taking it for granted.

    With 14 points in 17 playoff games so far this season, Marchand has been more than just a symbolic addition to Florida’s roster. His experience, leadership, and scoring touch have all played a role in the team’s deep playoff run.

    Why This Story Resonates

    Marchand’s journey isn’t just about hockey—it’s about reinvention. At 37, many players are winding down their careers or thinking about retirement. Marchand, however, embraced change and thrived under pressure.

    His emotional honesty after the game struck a chord with fans and analysts alike. It reminded everyone that even seasoned pros can be surprised by life’s twists—and grateful for second chances.

  • A Surprise Candidate Rises in the Bruins Coaching Race

    A Surprise Candidate Rises in the Bruins Coaching Race

    The Boston Bruins went into the offseason hoping to land a big name to get their team back to the playoffs. Mike Sullivan and Rick Tocchet were the names being thrown around as saviors for a team still reeling from a season without postseason hockey.

    But things didn’t go as planned. Both Sullivan and Tocchet slipped away from the Bruins, and now the team is having to retool their search. Reports say Don Sweeney may have inadvertently scared off top tier candidates.

    Rick Tocchet, in particular, had concerns about joining the Bruins due to Sweeney’s reputation among coaches. According to a source close to Tocchet, the veteran coach was worried about Sweeney’s track record with head coaches and his overall standing in the league.

    Now that those big names are out of the picture, the Bruins are focusing on a smaller but interesting group of finalists. And one name is emerging as the top choice.

    Jay Woodcroft Emerges as the Frontrunner

    NHL insider Jimmy Murphy just dropped a bombshell on the Bruins’ coaching search. Marco Sturm and Jay Leach were the initial frontrunners, but Murphy says Jay Woodcroft—a former Edmonton Oilers head coach—is now “The Frontrunner.”

    Woodcroft’s appeal is his modern coaching style, calm demeanor, and ability to manage stars while developing young players. He kept the Oilers locker room united and focused during playoff runs.

    For a Bruins team looking for balance between continuity and fresh ideas, Woodcroft is an attractive option. His recent NHL experience and ability to adapt to today’s game could be just what Boston needs to revitalize the roster.

    The Finalists: Continuity vs. Fresh Start

    Woodcroft is gaining traction, but the Bruins are still considering their other finalists.

    • Marco Sturm: A familiar face to Bruins fans, Sturm played for Boston and has coached in the organization. He knows the culture and could provide stability during a transition.
    • Jay Leach: Known for his player development expertise, Leach has worked with Providence, Boston’s AHL affiliate. He’s familiar with the organization’s prospects, so he’s a safe bet for young talent.

    But neither Sturm nor Leach has the same level of recent NHL head coaching experience as Woodcroft. Boston hasn’t had a coach with playoff cred and a composed presence behind the bench since Claude Julien. If the Bruins want to make a splash, Woodcroft might be their guy.

    What’s at Stake for the Bruins

    This couldn’t come at a worse time for the Bruins. Veterans like Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci are aging, and the core of the team is in transition. Meanwhile young players need guidance to reach their potential.

    A mistake in hiring a new coach could set the franchise back further, so Sweeney needs to get this right. With Woodcroft in the mix, the pressure is on the front office to make a choice that aligns with the long term goals.

    Why Woodcroft Could Be the Answer

    If Jay Woodcroft gets the job, it would be a shift towards a more modern approach to coaching in Boston. He’s structured but adaptable and has kept locker rooms engaged and motivated—a quality the Bruins desperately need after last season.

    Plus his experience with stars like Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl could translate to working with Boston’s remaining veterans and up and coming talent.

    For a team looking for stability and growth, Woodcroft’s modern tactics and steady leadership might be the perfect fit.

    Final Thoughts: A Make or Break Moment for the Bruins

    The coaching search has been anything but smooth but Jay Woodcroft adds a new wrinkle. Whether they go with Sturm or Leach or take a chance on Woodcroft, this decision will define the franchise.

    One thing is certain: the Bruins can’t afford another mistake. For Don Sweeney this might be his last chance to get it right—and Woodcroft’s rise suggests he already knows the answer.

  • Bruins Snatch Canucks Top Coaching Candidate in Shock Move

    Bruins Snatch Canucks Top Coaching Candidate in Shock Move

    The Canucks have officially moved on from the coaching search and hired Adam Foote as their new bench boss. While it brings continuity to the organization, it came at the cost of missing out on one of their top candidates— Marco Sturm. In a shocking twist, the Boston Bruins swooped in and reportedly got Sturm as their new head coach and Vancouver fans are left wondering what could have been.

    The Marco Sturm Rise

    For the last 7 years Marco Sturm has been building his coaching resume within the Los Angeles Kings organization. After 4 years as an assistant coach in the NHL, Sturm took the helm of the AHL’s Ontario Reign and spent the last 3 seasons as a head coach.

    Now 46 years old, Sturm gets his first shot at an NHL head coach—and it’s with the Boston Bruins. According to Cam Robinson of EliteProspects , Sturm will replace Jim Montgomery who was fired earlier this season and interim head coach Joe Sacco.

    It’s a surprise given Sturm was a finalist for the Canucks job. But the Canucks went with Foote, banking on continuity and a connection to the locker room to keep captain Quinn Hughes beyond 2027.

    Why the Bruins chose Sturm

    The Bruins are moving away from the veteran coach model with Montgomery and Bruce Cassidy and are going with a younger, fresher voice behind the bench.

    Sturm’s experience developing young talent in the Kings system likely played a big role in the Bruins decision. With the Bruins’ roster in transition, Sturm’s ability to develop prospects and adapt to the changing NHL landscape could be exactly what the team needs to rebuild its foundation.

    Canucks’ Gamble on Adam Foote

    While the Bruins made the headlines by getting Sturm, the Canucks are going with Adam Foote to steady the ship. Foote, a former NHL defenceman and long time assistant coach, is the safer choice for Vancouver. His lack of NHL head coaching experience is offset by his knowledge of the organization and his ability to connect with players.

    But passing on Sturm raises the question of whether the Canucks missed out on a more dynamic leader. Sturm’s mix of NHL playing experience and AHL developmental success could have brought a fresh perspective to a team in need of a turnaround.

    What This Means for Both Teams?

    This coaching carousel will be felt for years to come. For the Bruins, Sturm is a chance to redefine themselves after a bad season. His hiring means the front office is willing to take a chance on unproven but promising talent—a strategy that could pay off if done right.

    And the Canucks are counting on Foote to navigate them through the choppy waters. Whether it was the right move or not remains to be seen but one thing is for sure, Vancouver let a rising star get away.

    Final Thoughts: A Tale of Two Teams

    In the end the Canucks and Bruins took two different approaches to solving their coaching problems. Vancouver went for continuity and stability, and Boston went for the guy everyone thought was going to Vancouver.

    Only time will tell who made the right decision, but for now, Bruins fans can celebrate getting a coach with upside, and Canucks fans can hope Foote can right the ship.

  • Jeremy Swayman Shines at World Championship – A Welcome Win for the Bruins

    Jeremy Swayman Shines at World Championship – A Welcome Win for the Bruins

    The Boston Bruins are in dire need of a reset, and Jeremy Swayman has just given himself—and the team—a much-needed glimmer of hope. That came after a dismal 2024-25 season that left fans frustrated and wondering where it all went wrong for him. Swayman stepped up to the international stage at the IIHF World Championships and showed the world why he was once considered the Bruins’ goalie of the future.

    He wasn’t just good—he was flawless. In that gold-medal game against Switzerland on Sunday, Swayman stopped all 25 shots he faced. That 1-0 victory for Team USA clinched their first World Championship title in 92 years. Swayman finished the tournament with a 7-0 record and a .921 save percentage that shone like gold.

    Turning the Page on a Tough Season

    Swayman’s struggles during the 2024-25 NHL season were plain to see. He ranked 62nd among 73 goalies with at least 10 games played in goals saved above expected (-9.1). His save percentage of .892 was way below his career average of .919 through his first four seasons.

    After that final media address of the season, Swayman was pretty clear about where he wanted to be next year. “I wanted to play better,” he said. “I know I can play better—and that’s something I’m already working on.”

    The World Championships gave him the perfect chance to start rebuilding that confidence. And he took it.

    “I feel like a completely different person—and a completely different goalie,” Swayman said in Sweden, where he was interviewed by The Hockey News. “The guys in this room have just been incredible in supporting me. This has been a contagious locker room of joy.”

    A strong showing at Worlds doesn’t guarantee success in the NHL, of course. But it does give Swayman a solid foundation to build on as he heads into the offseason. For a Bruins team that really needs its goaltender to rebound, that’s a welcome development.

    Bruins’ Defensemen Impress on the International Stage

    Swayman wasn’t the only Bruins making waves at the World Championships. Defensemen Andrew Peeke and Mason Lohrei also played big roles for Team USA.

    Peeke played in all 10 games for the Americans, had one goal and three points, and logged heavy minutes. Lohrei played in 5 games, had one goal and was +4. Both looked good, and gave Bruins fans hope that they can be contributors next season.

    Lindholm and Pastrnak Continue to Shine

    Center Elias Lindholm was looking to bounce back from a tough first season with the Bruins after signing a 7 year, $54.25 million deal. He did just that, leading Team Sweden with 8 goals and 14 points in 10 games. He even had 2 assists in Sweden’s bronze medal game against Denmark and showed he can still produce when given the chance.

    Pastrnak meanwhile, was his superstar self, with 15 points for the defending champion Czech Republic. He’s a bright spot for the Bruins as they rebuild.

    Locmelis is the Future

    One of the best takeaways from the World Championships was Bruins prospect Dans Locmelis. The 20-year-old forward had 4 goals and 2 assists in 7 games for Latvia.

    He turned pro in April and immediately made an impact in Providence with 12 points in 6 games. Now he’s doing the same at Worlds. He’s going to be a big piece of the future.

    What This Means for the Bruins

    For the Bruins, Swayman’s resurgence couldn’t have come at a better time. GM Don Sweeney has a tough offseason ahead of him to fix the team’s many weaknesses: an anemic offense, a power play that doesn’t work, and a defense corps that’s a mess.

    But no one thing will determine if the Bruins get back to the playoffs more than Swayman getting his game back. If he does at the NHL level, it’ll be the spark Boston needs.

    But there are no guarantees. Seven games at Worlds isn’t the same as an NHL season, but it does give Swayman a sense of purpose heading into camp.

    A Fresh Start for Swayman and the Bruins

    Jeremy Swayman’s heroics at the World Championships are a silver lining for a Bruins organization that needs some good news. With several players stepping up on the international stage, Boston has a lot to be optimistic about.

    If Swayman can take this into the 2025-26 season, it’s good for a team that wants to put last year behind them. For now, Bruins fans can breathe a little easier knowing their goalie is getting his game back.

  • How Bruins Goalie Led Team USA to Historic World Championship Gold Medal Win?

    How Bruins Goalie Led Team USA to Historic World Championship Gold Medal Win?

    Jeremy Swayman was the man of the hour for Team USA as they won their first gold medal since 1933. He was unstoppable throughout the tournament, and his performance in the final game made him a hero for the Americans.

    In Sunday’s 1-0 overtime win against Switzerland, Swayman stopped all 25 shots he faced. He was a wall in net and showed incredible reflexes and composure under pressure. This shutout was the cherry on top of an undefeated tournament for the Bruins’ goalie, who finished with a .920 save percentage and 1.69 GAA.

    Swayman had a tough NHL season with the Bruins, where he went 22-29-7 with a 3.11 GAA and .892 save percentage. He was grateful to be at the World Championship.

    “I couldn’t be happier to be here, especially after the year I had,” Swayman said in Sweden, via The Hockey News. “I feel like a new human being and a new goalie. The guys in this room have been so great for just supporting me, and it’s been a fun locker room. I just feel like a new human being.”

    A Goalie Duel for the Ages

    The gold medal game was a tight, low scoring game that showcased both goalies. Swayman’s counterpart from Switzerland was great and forced the game to overtime.

    In the end it was Buffalo Sabres center Tage Thompson who scored the golden goal 2:02 into overtime. His goal ended the 92 year drought for Team USA.

    For Swayman it was a statement game. After being criticized all season he silenced the doubters by stepping up when it mattered most.

    Bruins Defensemen Shine in Gold Medal Victory

    Swayman wasn’t the only Bruin celebrating on Sunday. Defensemen Mason Lohrei and Andrew Peeke also won gold as part of Team USA. They were big for the team and helped solidify the defense which played in front of Swayman. Lindholm also scored for Sweden in the bronze medal game.

    A Redemption Story for Swayman

    Swayman’s performance at the World Championship was a redemption story. After struggling in the NHL season he used the tournament as an opportunity to reset and get his game back.

    His teammates were huge in his resurgence. “The guys in this room have been so great for just supporting me,” Swayman said. “It’s just been a fun locker room.”

    You could see that renewed confidence and energy in every game he played. From the big saves in tight situations to his leadership on and off the ice he showed why he’s one of the best young players in the league.

    What This Means for Swayman Moving Forward?

    Jeremy Swayman’s unbeaten streak and heroics led Team USA to their first World Championship gold in almost 100 years. His journey from a tough NHL season to international stardom is a story of perseverance and redemption.

    For Bruins fans Swayman’s success is a reminder of what he can do and a good sign for the 2025-26 season.

  • 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.