The Boston Bruins announced Thursday that they had concluded their interviews for their vacant head coaching position, and that Marco Sturm is set to become the 30th head coach in franchise history.
“Throughout this process, our goal was to identify a coach who could uphold our strong defensive foundation while helping us evolve offensively,” said Bruins GM Don Sweeney. “We were also looking for a communicator and leader – someone who connects with players, develops young talent, and earns the respect of the room. Marco impressed us at every step with his preparation, clarity, and passion. His path – playing for multiple NHL teams, coaching internationally, and leading at both the AHL and NHL levels – has shaped a well-rounded coach who’s earned this opportunity. As a former Bruin, he understands what this team means to the city and our fans. We’re embracing a new direction with Marco behind the bench and are confident his energy, standards, and commitment to a competitive, hard-nosed brand of hockey reflect exactly what Bruins hockey should be.”
The 46 year old served as head coach of the AHL’s Ontario Reign for the past 3 seasons, compiling an overall record of 119-80-11-6 along the way. Prior to that, he was an assistant coach for the LA Kings from 2018-2022, and head coach of the German Men’s National Team from 2015-2018.
“I’m incredibly honored to be named head coach of the Boston Bruins,” said Sturm. “I want to thank Charlie Jacobs and the Jacobs family, Cam Neely, and Don Sweeney for trusting me with this opportunity. Boston has always held a special place in my heart, and I know how much this team means to the city and to our fans. I’ve felt that passion as a player, and I can’t wait to be behind the bench and feel it again. I’m excited to get to work and do everything I can to help this team succeed.”
Sturm takes over from interim head coach Joe Sacco, who was elevated into the role following the firing of Jim Montgomery. Montgomery wasn’t out of a job for long however, as he was quickly scooped up by the St. Louis Blues.
A veteran of 938 NHL games, Sturm spent 5 of his 15 seasons with the Bruins between 2005-2010. Sturm was one of the pieces of the massive Joe Thornton trade alongside Wayne Primeau and Brad Stuart which saw Thornton become a member of the San Jose Sharks.
With their head coach role now filled, Boston can turn their attention to rejuvenating a roster which went from perennial President’s Trophy contender, to last place in the Eastern Conference in 2024-25. According to PuckPedia, Boston figures to have just over $26M in salary cap space heading into the offseason.
The Bruins have a number of RFA and UFA’s coming up for new contracts this summer, but few are expected to command top dollar in order to re-sign. Boston also has the 7th overall selection in this summer’s NHL entry draft which takes June 27th at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles.
Photo: Naomi. This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 2.0 Generic license.