Jay Leach a Finalist for Bruins Head Coach Position
Boston, MA – The Boston Bruins are advancing in their search for a new head coach following Jim Montgomery’s departure. Among the finalists vying for the position is assistant coach Jay Leach, who has been part of the Bruins’ organization for six seasons.
Reports from The Athletic indicate that Leach interviewed with the team on Thursday at Warrior Ice Arena. At 45, Leach’s extensive experience includes serving as an assistant coach overseeing the Bruins’ defense, a role that faced challenges last season due to injuries to key players Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm. The Bruins allowed an average of 3.30 goals per game last season, ranking them 26th in the NHL.
Leach is not alone in the running for the position. Other reported candidates include Mitch Love, an assistant coach for the Washington Capitals, and Marco Sturm, a former Bruins winger who is currently the head coach of the AHL. Former Edmonton Oilers head coach Jay Woodcroft has also been mentioned as a contender.
Boston’s coaching search has attracted significant attention, with Sturm viewed as a frontrunner. Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman suggested Sturm might be the next head coach but indicated that the situation remains fluid as interviews continue. He highlighted that although Sturm is still in the mix, it is unclear if his next visit to Boston is for a second interview or to receive an offer.
As the Bruins aim to solidify their leadership ahead of the new season, they continue to evaluate all possible candidates to ensure they find the best fit for the team’s future success.
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