The Boston Bruins are in trouble. After a promising start, they’ve hit a wall, dropping their last three games and sitting at a dismal 8-9-3 on the season. Their minus 21 goal differential is a glaring indication of their struggles. Fans are restless, and the calls for a coaching change are growing louder after the team was booed off the ice following an embarrassing 5-1 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets.
NHL insider Chris Johnston recently fueled the fire, suggesting on TSN radio that a trade isn’t the answer for the Bruins. Instead, he believes a new voice behind the bench is the most logical solution. Could a coaching change be the shakeup this struggling team needs?
Bruins Potential Coaching Replacements
If the Bruins decide to move on from their current coach, several intriguing names could be in the mix.
Joel Quenneville: The former Chicago Blackhawks bench boss is a proven winner with three Stanley Cups and the second-most wins in NHL history. Reinstated by the league in July, Quenneville is reportedly eager to return to coaching, and the Bruins could be an ideal landing spot. His experience and championship pedigree could be just what the Bruins need to get back on track.
Todd McLellan: The former Los Angeles Kings coach, McLellan is another experienced coach known for his strong communication skills and emphasis on defensive structure. He’s also known for running demanding, focused practices, something the Bruins might need to regain their competitive edge.
Other Possibilities: While Quenneville and McLellan are the early frontrunners, other names could emerge. Experienced coaches like Bruce Boudreau and Jay Woodcroft might also be considered. The Bruins could even look to the AHL or college ranks for a fresh perspective.
My Take: While a coaching change is certainly a possibility, I believe the Bruins’ problems run deeper than just coaching. The team’s core is aging, and they haven’t adequately addressed their defensive deficiencies. A new coach might provide a temporary spark, but it won’t solve their underlying issues. Ultimately, the Bruins need to make some tough decisions about their roster if they want to be true Stanley Cup contenders again.
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