Boston Bruins closing in on head coach decision with Joe Sacco among final contenders

Boston Bruins have talked to a lot of people!

Joe Sacco remains in contention after tough interim stint

Sacco stepped into a chaotic situation in November when Jim Montgomery was fired.

He didn’t deliver a miracle turnaround, the Bruins finished 25-30-7 and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2016, but under the surface, there was more going on.

Boston’s lineup was hit hard by injuries and mid-season trades. Charlie McAvoy suffered a shoulder injury and infection during the February 4 Nations Face-Off.

Hampus Lindholm missed most of the year with a knee issue.

Then came the sell-off, Brad Marchand, Brandon Carlo, and Charlie Coyle were all dealt before the deadline.

Given the hand he was dealt, Sacco’s ability to keep the room engaged didn’t go unnoticed.

President Cam Neely confirmed in April that Sacco would be part of the coaching interviews, adding that the team was committed to running a full search.

Sweeney rules out playoff coaches as search narrows

General manager Don Sweeney added clarity this week in an interview with Steve Conroy of the Boston Herald.

He confirmed that the Bruins are no longer considering coaches still involved in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. That effectively eliminates Dallas Stars assistant Misha Donskov from the field.

We’re expecting to have someone in place well before the NHL Draft,

Sweeney told the Herald.

With the draft just weeks away, Boston’s choice could come down any day now.

What Boston wants in its next bench boss

The coaching shortlist reflects a mix of styles. Mitch Love has a reputation for developing young players.

Jay Woodcroft and Luke Richardson bring NHL head coaching experience.

Marco Sturm has ties to the organization and international credentials. Jay Leach and Sacco represent internal continuity — both are well-known to Bruins leadership.

It’s not just about the Xs and Os. The next head coach will need to command the room, stabilize a transitioning roster, and help define the direction of a team trying to stay competitive without a full reset.

The decision is close. Boston’s next coach will soon step into the spotlight — and into one of the NHL’s most demanding jobs.