Marco Sturm has been appointed as the new head coach of the Boston Bruins, marking a significant change for the organization after a disappointing season. The announcement, made on Thursday, June 5, 2025, signifies a fresh direction for the team as they aim to return to playoff contention. Sturm, a former Bruins player himself, brings a wealth of experience both on and off the ice to the role.
Sturm replaces Joe Sacco, who served as the interim coach after Jim Montgomery was fired 20 games into the 2024-25 season on November 19. Sacco led the team to a 25-30-7 record during his tenure. The Bruins finished last in the Atlantic Division with an overall record of 33-39-10, missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since 2016. This performance was deemed "absolutely unacceptable" by CEO Charlie Jacobs, who apologized to fans and promised a better team moving forward.
Bruins General Manager Don Sweeney highlighted the qualities that made Sturm the right fit for the job. "Throughout this process, our goal was to identify a coach who could uphold our strong defensive foundation while helping us evolve offensively," Sweeney said. "We were also looking for a communicator and leader – someone who connects with players, develops young talent, and earns the respect of the room. Marco impressed us at every step with his preparation, clarity, and passion." Sweeney also noted Sturm's diverse experience, including playing in the NHL, coaching internationally, and leading at the AHL level, which has shaped him into a well-rounded coach.
Sturm expressed his gratitude and excitement about returning to Boston. "I'm incredibly honored to be named head coach of the Boston Bruins," he said. "I want to thank Charlie Jacobs and the Jacobs family, Cam Neely, and Don Sweeney for trusting me with this opportunity. 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. I'm excited to get to work and do everything I can to help this team succeed.”
Prior to joining the Bruins, Sturm, 46, served as the head coach of the Ontario Reign, the AHL affiliate of the Los Angeles Kings, for the past three seasons (2022-2025). His tenure with the Reign saw the development of young players like Quinton Byfield and Brandt Clarke, which is an area the Bruins aim to improve. Before his time in the AHL, Sturm gained international coaching experience as the head coach and general manager for the German national team, leading them to a silver medal at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics. He also spent five seasons as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Kings.
As a player, Sturm had a notable NHL career, playing 938 games with the San Jose Sharks, Boston Bruins, Los Angeles Kings, Vancouver Canucks, Washington Capitals, and Florida Panthers. He recorded 242 goals and 245 assists. He played for the Bruins from 2005 to 2010.
Sturm becomes the 30th head coach in the history of the Boston Bruins. The organization hopes that his leadership and vision will guide the team back to its winning ways and bring success to Boston.
