In a surprising move, the Boston Bruins have dismissed head coach Jim Montgomery following an underwhelming start to the 2024-25 NHL season. The team, currently holding an 8-9-3 record, has struggled to find consistency, prompting management to make a change behind the bench.
Jim Montgomery, who took over as head coach in June 2022, led the Bruins to a historic regular season in 2022-23. Under his guidance, the team achieved an NHL-record 65 wins and amassed 135 points, earning Montgomery the Jack Adams Award as the league’s top coach. However, the Bruins’ postseason performance fell short, as they were eliminated in the first round by the Florida Panthers, despite holding a 3-1 series lead.
The current season has been a stark contrast to the previous year’s success. The Bruins have struggled offensively, averaging just 2.40 goals per game, placing them 31st out of 32 teams. Defensively, they have allowed an average of 3.45 goals per game, ranking 28th in the league. These statistics reflect a team that has been unable to replicate its prior dominance.
General Manager Don Sweeney addressed the coaching change in a statement: “Jim Montgomery is a very good NHL coach and an even better person. He has made a positive impact throughout the Bruins organization, and I am both grateful and appreciative of the opportunity to work with him and learn from him.”
Sweeney also highlighted the team’s recent struggles: “Our team’s inconsistency and performance in the first 20 games of the … .”
In the interim, associate coach Joe Sacco has been promoted to head coach. Sacco, 55, … organization since the 2014-15 season and brings previous head coaching experience from his tenure with the Colorado Avalanche from 200 … to 2013. Sweeney expressed confidence in Sacco’s ability to lead the team: “I believe Joe Sacco … .”
Team President Cam Neely also commented on the decision: “On behalf of the Boston Bruins … . Jim’s open and honest communication with … , and management, as well as … .”
The Bruins’ recent performance includes losses in four of their last five games … a 5-1 defeat to the Columbus Blue Jackets, who were ranked 29th in the NHL at the time. This loss was particularly concerning, as the team appeared uncompetitive and lacked the intensity expected of a playoff contender.
Looking ahead, the Bruins face the challenge of turning their season around under new leadership. The team has a roster filled with talent, but translating that potential into consistent on-ice success has been elusive thus far. The hope is that Sacco’s familiarity with the organization and his coaching experience will provide the stability and direction needed to navigate the remainder of the season.
