Marco Sturm Takes the Helm as Bruins Coach
BOSTON – Marco Sturm, a former player turned coach, has a colorful history with the Boston Bruins, marked by a significant trade that sent Joe Thornton—the team’s No. 1 overall draft pick and a future NHL MVP—to San Jose. Reflecting on his arrival in Boston, Sturm shared with reporters during his introductory press conference that the intense passion of Bruins fans was both daunting and motivating.
“It’s not like I caused the trade, right?” he joked, acknowledging the scrutiny he faced upon joining the team. “People have strong opinions, but that just pushes you to do better. The fans want to see good things happen, and I appreciate that support. I prefer to focus on what lies ahead.”
Sturm, a decorated player with a career that includes three Olympic appearances, played five of his fourteen NHL seasons with the Bruins, culminating in a silver medal for Team Germany at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics. Most recently, he spent six years with the Los Angeles Kings organization, where he was the head coach of their AHL affiliate for the past three years.
New Beginnings
At 46 years old, Sturm succeeds Joe Sacco, who took over as interim coach after Jim Montgomery was let go in November. General Manager Don Sweeney emphasized the importance of bringing in a coach who not only appreciates the ethos of Bruins fans but also shares their dedication and work ethic, particularly as the team looks to rebound following a disappointing season that saw them miss the playoffs for the first time since 2016.
The Bruins held a press event in their Causeway Street offices, attended by former captain Patrice Bergeron, who was integral in one of Sturm’s memorable moments—a game-winning goal during the 2010 Winter Classic at Fenway Park. Festivities included German chocolate cupcakes, a nod to Sturm’s heritage.
From Player to Coach
Transitioning from player to coach was not a path Sturm initially considered, but coaching his children ignited a newfound passion. He became the head coach and general manager of the German national team in 2015, discovering his aptitude for coaching in that role. He had spent six years in Los Angeles, away from his wife and children, pursuing his coaching ambitions, while his kids grew fond of Boston life and expressed a desire to return.
“Here I am, fulfilling their wish,” Sturm noted.
Sturm became intrigued by the Bruins opportunity due to their roster depth, particularly noting promising goaltending from Jeremy Swayman and a solid core featuring standout players like Charlie McAvoy and David Pastrnak. He believes the team has the potential to contend for the playoffs if they can remain healthy amidst a rebuilding phase characterized by an influx of young talent following the midseason trade of veterans including Brad Marchand, the last player from the 2011 Stanley Cup championship squad.
Looking Ahead
After several strong seasons, the Bruins stumbled this year, finishing with just 76 points compared to previous seasons where they achieved over 100 points consistently, including a historic 2023. Sturm is ready to tackle the challenges ahead, expressing his enthusiasm for the role:
“Every job, whether here in Boston or elsewhere, comes with its hurdles. I thrive on challenges, and I understand the expectations. I’m committed to putting in the work, and I look forward to what’s next.”
