Bruins Begin Head Coaching Search; Sweeney Says Process Is “Ongoing”
The Boston Bruins have officially launched their search for a new head coach, with General Manager Don Sweeney confirming that initial outreach to candidates is underway.
Speaking after the NHL Draft Lottery—where Boston dropped to the No. 7 pick—Sweeney provided an update on the timeline and structure of the process.
“Have spoken to some coaches,” Sweeney said. “Haven’t done any in-person interviews yet, but we’ve narrowed a list down, and we’re going to move forward with some Zoom interviews, and then in-person interviews, in a very short manner.”
Sweeney added that the Bruins are still waiting on certain candidates who are currently involved in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, indicating the team is casting a wide net that includes individuals with ongoing postseason responsibilities.
As for the current coaching staff, including interim head coach Joe Sacco, Sweeney said decisions remain in “a holding pattern.” However, both Sacco and assistant coach Jay Leach will be formally considered for the permanent position.
“When I reference that we’ll have a new head coach, it could easily be one of them,” Sweeney said. “They’re strong candidates, and they’ll be in the candidate pool, along with some other really good, experienced-level coaches at different levels. We’re going to find the right guy.”
Though the search is still in its early stages, Sweeney was encouraged by the enthusiasm of those he’s spoken to.
“This is an exciting opportunity for coaches to be interviewing for this position, and that’s the indication I’ve gotten—they’re very excited about maybe being the head coach of the Boston Bruins,” he noted.
Candidates have also expressed interest in learning more about the Bruins’ current roster and injury outlook heading into next season.
“The first question people ask is about health—how healthy we’re going to be—and the return to full form for impact players,” said Sweeney. “But the overriding theme is excitement, as we turn the page and move toward finding the right person for the job.”
With early interviews set to begin via Zoom before transitioning to in-person meetings, the Bruins appear committed to a thorough but efficient search process as they look to usher in a new era behind the bench.
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