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Tag: Marco Sturm

  • As Bruins Head Coach, Marco Sturm Can’t Ignore These 4 Tasks

    As Bruins Head Coach, Marco Sturm Can’t Ignore These 4 Tasks

    When Marco Sturm stepped up to the podium during his introductory press conference as the Bruins’ new head coach, he exuded confidence and clarity. “To be honest, I can’t wait to just go in the locker room and just work with my guys,” Sturm said, setting the tone for what promises to be a pivotal chapter in Boston’s hockey history. With the Bruins coming off a dismal season, Sturm’s appointment as the franchise’s 30th head coach comes with high expectations—and a long list of challenges.

    Drawing from his experience as both a player and a coach, Sturm brings a defensive-minded approach and a knack for developing younger talent. But if the Bruins hope to return to playoff contention, there are four critical tasks that simply cannot be overlooked. Here’s what Marco Sturm must prioritize as he takes the helm in Boston.

    1. Shore Up Boston’s Defensive Structure

    Defense wins championships—or at least keeps teams competitive. For the Bruins, rebuilding their defensive identity is non-negotiable. Don Sweeney, Boston’s general manager, has already pointed to the Los Angeles Kings as a model for structured, stingy defense. “If you don’t defend in the National Hockey League, you don’t have sustained success,” Sweeney emphasized earlier this year.

    Sturm’s seven-year tenure with the Kings makes him an ideal candidate to implement this vision. However, Boston’s struggles on defense extend beyond personnel. Even with stars like Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm patrolling the blue line last season, the Bruins allowed far too many high-danger scoring chances—ranking 20th in the NHL.

    Sturm will need to address these issues by tightening up Boston’s zone defense or clogging the neutral zone. Whether it’s reviving the system that worked under Claude Julien or introducing a hybrid approach, stabilizing the Bruins’ defense is Job One.

    2. Unlock More Offense

    While shoring up the defense is crucial, the Bruins also need to find ways to score more goals. David Pastrnak carried much of the offensive load last season with 43 goals and 106 points, but the rest of the roster struggled mightily. A shot-first mentality could be the answer.

    Under Jim Montgomery, the Bruins prioritized quality over quantity when it came to shot selection. But with limited scoring depth, they may benefit from adopting Bruce Cassidy’s high-volume approach instead. By encouraging defensemen to fire pucks toward the net and emphasizing forechecking pressure, Sturm can create second-chance opportunities and greasy goals.

    “We want to score more goals, [but] scoring more goals is not just in the offensive zone,” Sturm explained. “It starts with how we get there.” Better puck possession, cleaner entries into the offensive zone, and fewer turnovers are all part of the equation.

    3. Fix the Power Play

    The Bruins’ power play was a disaster last season, ranking 29th in the league with a measly 15.2% success rate. Opposing penalty kills repeatedly shut down David Pastrnak’s lethal one-timer from the left circle, leaving Boston without alternative options to generate scoring chances.

    Sturm plans to bring fresh ideas to the table, such as slotting a left-shot defenseman onto the top unit or using Pastrnak as a “rover” to keep defenses guessing. He’s also looking for an assistant coach with power-play expertise to join his staff. If Chris Kelly shifts focus to the penalty kill, finding the right hire will be essential to revitalizing Boston’s man-advantage game.

    4. Preach Patience for a Younger Roster

    The Bruins’ roster is evolving, and so must their mindset. With prospects like Fraser Minten and Matt Poitras expected to play larger roles, Sturm must foster a culture of patience and growth. Veterans like Pastrnak and McAvoy will need to lead by example, showing younger players the ropes while enduring some growing pains.

    Sturm understands this dynamic well, having helped develop young talents like Quinton Byfield and Brandt Clarke in Los Angeles. “We’re all going to make mistakes,” he acknowledged. “But as long as you support them and remain honest, they’ll learn.”

    By creating a practice environment where young players see veterans putting in the work every day, Sturm aims to build a cohesive unit capable of competing now and thriving in the future.

    Final Thoughts

    Marco Sturm’s first season as Bruins head coach won’t lack for challenges. From fixing a porous defense to unlocking untapped offensive potential, the road ahead is steep—but not insurmountable. By addressing these four key priorities, Sturm can lay the foundation for a brighter future in Boston.

    As Sturm put it, “I hate losing, and I’m very competitive on and off the ice.” Bruins fans should take heart: Their new coach isn’t just talking the talk—he’s ready to walk the walk.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.