Following a disastrous 2024-25 season that saw them finish last in the Atlantic Division, the Boston Bruins enter the 2025-26 season with a new head coach in Marco Sturm and a roster undergoing significant changes. After trading away key players like Brad Marchand, Brandon Carlo, Charlie Coyle and Trent Frederic, the Bruins are aiming to retool on the fly and return to playoff contention. However, several burning questions surround the team as they prepare for the upcoming season.
The Bruins have hired former player Marco Sturm as their new head coach, hoping he can reinvigorate the roster. Sturm takes over after the firing of Jim Montgomery during the 2024-25 season. While Joe Sacco served as interim coach, Sturm is expected to bring a new approach to the team. Known as a player-friendly coach, Sturm aims to create a comfortable environment where players can embrace their style and the team around them. The team needs to rebuild its culture after losing key leaders. Sturm's ability to instill a strong team identity will be crucial for the Bruins' success. To support Sturm, the Bruins have added Steve Spott as an assistant coach, joining Jay Leach, Chris Kelly, and goaltending coach Bob Essensa. Spott's experience, particularly on special teams, is expected to be a major asset.
David Pastrnak remains the Bruins' top offensive weapon. In 2024-25, he recorded 43 goals and 63 assists for 106 points, even on a struggling Bruins team. The Bruins will need Pastrnak to maintain his high level of play to be competitive. He has had three straight 100-point seasons. Without linemate Brad Marchand, Pastrnak will need to be creative and resilient. Morgan Geekie had a career year.
Jeremy Swayman is the Bruins'clear starting goaltender. After a sub-par season, Swayman will need to regain his top form. Some of Swayman's struggles were related to a heavy workload. A more balanced workload could increase his effectiveness. The team needs him to perform at the level he has shown in the past. His performance is a major X-factor for the Bruins' success. What Swayman looks like this season will determine whether his contract was a mistake.
With Jeremy Swayman as the established starter, the backup goaltender position is a key question mark. Michael DiPietro and Joonas Korpisalo will likely battle for the role in training camp. Korpisalo has expressed a desire for more playing time. The Bruins may showcase Korpisalo in the preseason to find a trade partner. DiPietro, a promising prospect, is also a strong contender. If DiPietro doesn't win the backup role, he would have to clear waivers.
The Bruins have made several additions to their roster. They have brought in players like Viktor Arvidsson, Tanner Jeannot, Sean Kuraly, and Michael Eyssimont. These additions aim to make the Bruins harder to play against. However, the Bruins still need to add scoring depth. Beyond Pastrnak and Geekie, the Bruins lack proven goal-scorers. The Bruins are hoping that Arvidsson rediscovers his scoring touch.
