The Boston Bruins are actively shopping for their new head coach, and the list of candidates is growing. Interim head coach Joe Sacco and assistant Jay Leach are both on the list. General manager Don Sweeney has this week all but admitted that the Bruins are also looking at outside candidates, including Rick Tocchet, Marco Sturm, and several other top-brass coaches throughout the NHL.
Rick Tocchet is the most experienced and highest-profile name connected to the Bruins’ debut. The 61-year-old former NHLer just stepped down as the head coach of the Vancouver Canucks after three seasons. He led Vancouver to the second round of the playoffs in 2024 but watched the team miss the playoffs again this season.
However, hiring Tocchet will cost. Several clubs the Penguins, Flyers, and Kraken, among others are also interested in his services. Sources say he can earn over $6 million a year for five years, putting him among the highest-paid coaches in league history.
Marco Sturm brings fresh insight and a solid Boston connection
If the Bruins seek a cheaper but talented alternative, Marco Sturm may be the solution. Sturm, age 46, currently is an assistant coach for the Ontario Reign, the Los Angeles Kings’ AHL affiliate. He has amassed a 119-80-17 record over three seasons