Breaking: Don Sweeney Speeds Up Bruins’ Coaching Search After Signing Extension

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Now officially locked in through 2028, Boston Bruins general manager Don Sweeney is fast-tracking the team’s head coaching search with the NHL Draft just weeks away.

After months of uncertainty within the organization, Sweeney’s new two-year contract brings clarity and momentum to the Bruins’ offseason plans. His extension, finalized earlier this week, removes a major question mark and allows Boston to focus fully on one of its most critical decisions: who will lead the team behind the bench next season.

Speaking to the Boston Herald, Sweeney acknowledged that the deal brings much-needed stability at a pivotal time.

“Does it help in terms of alignment when we’re talking? Yeah, there’s no question it takes away some of the question marks in the process,” Sweeney told reporter Steve Conroy. “It’s always important to have a line of communication between the coach and GM. … The timing is probably unique since we’re going through a coaching search, but I tried to separate the personal and professional.”

Bruins Won’t Wait for Playoff Fallout

Unlike some clubs that wait until after the Stanley Cup Playoffs to see which coaches become available, the Bruins plan to move quickly. Sweeney made it clear: Boston won’t wait around for candidates from playoff teams like Florida, Carolina, Edmonton, or Dallas to shake free.

That approach rules out several high-profile names but underscores the urgency to have a new bench boss in place before the draft. With the No. 7 overall pick, the organization wants clear leadership heading into a crucial offseason.

Internal Options Still in Play

While Sweeney kept most external candidates under wraps, he did confirm that interim head coach Joe Sacco and former Bruins assistant Jay Leach are in the mix. Both bring familiarity with the team’s structure—something that may matter in what could be a transitional year.

Still, there’s openness to an outside hire. The Bruins are searching for more than a stopgap; this decision will shape the long-term identity of the team.

Missed Chances with Sullivan and Tocchet

Two potential targets are already off the table. Former Bruins coach Mike Sullivan is reportedly headed to the New York Rangers, a logical fit given his pedigree and experience in major markets. Meanwhile, Rick Tocchet—Sweeney’s former teammate—chose to return to Philadelphia, where he made his name as a player.

According to Sweeney, both were legitimate options at one point.

Decision Coming Soon

One thing is clear: the Bruins will have a new coach before the draft. After missing the playoffs and enduring a turbulent season under an interim regime, the organization has laid its groundwork. Now it’s time to make the hire that will lead Boston into its next chapter.