The Boston Bruins have officially named Marco Sturm as the 30th head coach in the franchise’s history, marking a significant step in the team’s effort to turn things around. Sturm, a former NHL player, takes over the role from interim coach Joe Sacco, who stepped in after Jim Montgomery’s departure in mid-November. This coaching change comes at a time when the Bruins are looking to regain their dominance after a sharp drop in performance.
A Tough Year for the Bruins
The 2024-25 season has been a difficult one for the Bruins, following a strong 2022-23 campaign where they set a record-high 135 points. The team dropped to 109 points in 2023-24 and then plummeted to just 76 points in the current season, finishing in a tie for last place in the Eastern Conference. A lot of this downturn can be attributed to a combination of factors, including a drop in offensive output and an increase in goals against.
In 2022-23, the Bruins averaged 3.67 goals per game and allowed only 2.12 goals per game. By 2024-25, those numbers had worsened, with the team scoring just 2.71 goals per game and allowing 3.30 goals. The power play also struggled, dropping to 15.2% from 22.2% the previous year, while the penalty kill fell to 76.3% from 82.5%.
A Change in Direction
Despite these struggles, some key players remained productive. David Pastrnak recorded 43 goals and 106 points, but beyond him, the team lacked offensive firepower. No other Bruins player managed more than 60 points, with Morgan Geekie and new addition Elias Lindholm trailing behind.
At the NHL trade deadline, the Bruins made the tough decision to move several prominent players, including captain Brad Marchand, centers Charlie Coyle and Trent Frederic, and defenseman Brandon Carlo, in an effort to retool for the future and secure assets. However, the team still has strong core players such as Pastrnak, defensemen Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm, and goaltender Jeremy Swayman.
The hope is that Sturm’s hard-nosed brand of hockey will help steer the team back to a more competitive form. His approach will aim to build on the Bruins’ strong defensive foundation while improving their offensive play.
Marco Sturm’s Coaching Experience
Sturm brings a wealth of coaching experience to Boston. He spent the past three seasons as head coach of the Ontario Reign, the AHL affiliate of the Los Angeles Kings. Under his leadership, the Reign made the playoffs in each of those years and averaged 3.13 goals per game, while allowing 2.875 goals against per game this season. He’s also coached top prospects like Quinton Byfield, Brandt Clarke, and Alex Turcotte, who have moved on to the NHL.
In addition to his AHL coaching experience, Sturm has served as an assistant coach for the Los Angeles Kings and as head coach for Germany’s national men’s team, including coaching the U-20 team and the Olympic team that won silver in 2018.
“Marco impressed us at every step with his preparation, clarity, and passion,” said Bruins GM Don Sweeney in the announcement. “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.”
A Familiar Face for the Bruins
Sturm is no stranger to Boston. The former left winger played 14 seasons in the NHL, five of which were spent with the Bruins. During his career, he scored 242 goals and 245 assists for 487 points in 938 games, along with 22 points in 68 playoff games. Sturm’s deep connection to the team and city is evident in his statement: “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.”
As Sturm takes the reins, the focus will be on instilling a stronger defensive structure while boosting the team’s offense. The Bruins will need to make the most of their remaining core players and develop their younger talent to get back into playoff contention. Sturm’s leadership and experience will be key to helping the team navigate these challenges and rediscover their competitive edge.
The Bruins’ path to success may not be immediate, but with Sturm behind the bench, there is hope that they can regain their position as one of the top teams in the Eastern Conference.
