Bruins Rumors: Boston To "Identify Players Who Love Being Here"

The Boston Bruins are reeling after a rough start to the 2024-25 season, posting an 9-9-3 record with a league-worst minus-20 goal differential. 

General Manager Don Sweeney made the bold decision to fire head coach Jim Montgomery, who led the team to a historic 65-win campaign just last year, citing a "flatline" training camp and lack of urgency on the ice. 

“We’re going to identify the guys that love being here, love representing the Boston Bruins, and if they don’t, then I’ll make some changes as a result of that,” Sweeney said, signaling that underperforming players may soon find themselves on the trade block. 

Interim coach Joe Sacco now faces the daunting task of reigniting a disjointed roster in what feels like a pivotal moment for the franchise.

#NHLBruins GM Sweeney, "We're going to identify the guys that love being here, love representing the Boston Bruins, and if they don't, then I'll make some changes as a result of that and performance will drive it."

— Shawn Hutcheon (@ShawnHutcheon) November 20, 2024

The Bruins’ struggles show deeper issues stemming from years of questionable roster planning and missed opportunities. 

While the team relied on legends like Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci for nearly two decades, Sweeney’s inability to adequately prepare for their departures has left the roster in limbo. 

Although early in the season, high-profile acquisitions such as Elias Lindholm and Nikita Zadorov have failed to deliver, while star players like David Pastrnak and Jeremy Swayman have struggled to meet expectations, with Swayman’s .884 save percentage drawing particular criticism. 

Sweeney’s frustrations are evident as he wrestles with limited cap flexibility and trade options, potentially forcing decisions involving even veterans like Brad Marchand or Charlie Coyle to spark a turnaround.

Critics have pointed to Sweeney’s drafting woes and reliance on short-term fixes as key reasons for the team’s current identity crisis. 

“This league is incredibly humbling,” Sweeney admitted, emphasizing the need to return to the hard-working culture that once defined the Bruins. 

The Bruins’ response in the coming weeks will determine whether they can salvage their season or face a deeper reckoning within the organization.

Photo Credit: Bob DeChiara-Imagn Images