Unexpected name surges to the top of Bruins' coaching search as front-runner emerges

Jay Woodcroft leads the pack in Bruins’ search, with Marco Sturm and Jay Leach still in the running as coaching decision nears.

After missing out on big names like Mike Sullivan and Rick Tocchet, Boston has shifted its focus to the final three, and Woodcroft is gaining momentum fast.  

The Boston Bruins have been playing catch-up in the head-coaching market, but it looks like they’re finally closing in on their man.

Despite entering the offseason with optimism, Boston saw potential options like Mike Sullivan and Rick Tocchet slip away.

And now, we’re learning that the Bruins’ front office — specifically Don Sweeney — might have played a role in those missed connections.

Rick Tocchet, a widely respected candidate, reportedly passed on Boston due in large part to concerns about Sweeney’s reputation among coaches.

He was concerned for two reasons: Sweeney’s status and track record with his head coaches.

That insight, shared by someone close to Tocchet, reflects a growing narrative around Boston’s front office, one that may have hindered its ability to attract elite coaching talent.

With those names now off the table, the focus has shifted to a trio of finalists. Marco Sturm and Jay Leach had already been mentioned as front-runners, but now a third candidate, Jay Woodcroft, has entered the conversation in a big way.

Boston Bruins insider drops latest development

NHL insider Jimmy Murphy dropped the latest development, citing fresh info from league sources.

"Yesterday, on the @sickpodnhl, I reported that Marco Sturm and Jay Leach were frontrunners to become the next HC of the #NHLBruins.

"That is still true, but I’ve since been told by two trusted sources that former #LetsGoOilers HC Jay Woodcroft is too, and may be ‘The Frontrunner.’"