Boston Bruins Make Several Coaching Changes.
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Originally published on Inside the Rink | By Connor Green | Last updated: 6/13/24.
Don Sweeney, general manager of the Boston Bruins, said today that they will make several changes to their coaching staff before the 2024-25 season.
John McLean will rejoin the Bruins’ player development staff as a Skating and Skills Coach; Joe Sacco will be promoted to Associate Coach; and Jay Leach, former Providence Bruins head coach, will return as an Assistant Coach in Boston.
Jay Leach was with the Seattle Kraken for several years before their coaching change this summer. Prior to that, Leach was the head coach of the Providence Bruins, with a record of 136-77-26. Since 2002, he has coached in the AHL and NHL, totaling 11 seasons.
It’s worth mentioning that Leach was a candidate for the Bruins’ head coaching position before Jim Montgomery was hired.
“Jay was a highly successful coach with the Providence Bruins, where he had a significant impact on our player development system, and he also brings excellent experience as an assistant coach with the Seattle Kraken. We feel Jay will immediately integrate and compliment our existing staff when he returns to the Bruins to work with our defense corps.”
Don Sweeney’s comments about Jay Leach
Joe Sacco has been a part of the Bruins coaching staff for eleven seasons, working under several coaches. This minor elevation could be a gift of appreciation from the Bruins’ front office, or it could signal future moves on the Bruins bench.
John McLean
Prior to joining the coaching staff last season, John McLean worked with the Bruins’ skating and skills department. Whether this position was transitory to begin with or simply wasn’t a good fit for him, it’s encouraging to see him stay with the business.
“John was instrumental working with our medical staff on players returning from injury, and his experience as an assistant coach this season will provide great insights to young players throughout our organization to understand the individual work that is required to develop as a Bruin.”
Don Sweeney on Jon McLean: My Thoughts.
Getting Jay Leach back from the Seattle Kraken is a great addition for the Bruins. Prior to Jim Montgomery’s arrival in Boston, many believed he was the best candidate for the head coaching position.
With another veteran coach joining the staff and Sacco receiving a modest raise, it appears that the Bruins are preparing to fire Jim Montgomery at the first indication of difficulty next season. The Bruins have yet to win a playoff game after two outstanding regular seasons. Most Bruins fans are aware that the Jacobs family enjoys a playoff gate.
These adjustments will undoubtedly make for a fascinating season, and they may indicate that Sweeney is ready to replenish this team with star quality.
