Today, Boston Bruins general manager Don Sweeney has announced multiple changes to their coaching staff prior to the 2024-25 season.
John McLean will return to the Bruins player development staff as a Skating and Skills Coach; Joe Sacco will be promoted to Associate Coach, and former Providence Bruins head coach Jay Leach will return as an Assistant Coach in Boston.
Jay Leach
Leach spent a few years with the Seattle Kraken prior to their coaching change this offseason. Previous to that, Leach was the bench boss of the Providence Bruins, carrying a record of 136-77-26. In total, he’s compiled 11 coaching seasons between the AHL and NHL since 2002.
Worth noting, Leach was a candidate for the Bruins head coach position prior to Jim Montgomery getting the job.
“Jay was a very successful coach with the Providence Bruins where he greatly impacted our player development system, and he also brings valuable experience as an assistant coach from the Seattle Kraken. We believe Jay will integrate quickly and complement our current staff as he comes back to the Bruins to work with our defense corps.”
Don Sweeney’s comments on Jay Leach
Mornings w/ Matty Offseason Trade Target – Reilly Smith
Joe Sacco
Sacco has been part of the Bruins coaching staff for ten seasons, spanning multiple coaches. This small promotion could be a token of appreciation from the Bruins Front Office, or it could be a foreshadowing for future moves on the Bruins bench.
John McLean
John McLean was previously working with the Bruins Skating and Skills staff prior to joining the coaching staff last season. Whether this position was temporary to start or just wasn’t the right fit, it’s good to see him stay within the organization.
“John was instrumental working with our medical staff on players returning from injury, and his experience as an assistant coach this season will provide great insights to young players throughout our organization to understand the individual work that is required to develop as a Bruin.”
Don Sweeney on Jon McLean
My Thoughts
Being able to land Jay Leach back from the Seattle Kraken is a wonderful addition for the Bruins. Many thought he was the right choice for the head coaching position prior to Jim Montgomery coming to Boston.
With another experienced coach joining the staff and Sacco getting a slight promotion, it feels like the Bruins are stacking the table to fire Jim Montgomery at any sign of trouble next season. After two stellar regular seasons, the Bruins haven’t been able to get any success in the postseason. As most Bruins fans know, the Jacobs family loves a playoff gate.
These changes will certainly make for an interesting season and may tip Sweeney’s hand that he’s ready to reload this roster with star talent.
