How Marco Sturm Impressed Bruins During Coaching Search

Bruins general manager Don Sweeney made it clear what he was looking for in the next coach of the Bruins, and Marco Sturm checked each of those boxes.

Boston named Sturm the 30th head coach in franchise history on Thursday, ending a lengthy and pivotal search for the Bruins’ new bench boss. The success of Sturm’s first head-coaching gig will largely depend on his ability to help usher the B’s through a transitional period after missing the playoffs in 2024-25.

As Sweeney began his search in April, he revealed he was emphasizing finding a coach who was a good communicator, organized and structured. Now, more than ever, he argued, coaches must be able to connect with players who seem to be getting younger and younger every year.

Upon announcing Sturm’s hiring, Sweeney detailed in a statement how Sturm further impressed them in the coaching search.

“Throughout this process, our goal was to identify a coach who could uphold our strong defensive foundation while helping us evolve offensively,” Sweeney said in his statement as part of a press release from the team. “We were also looking for a communicator and leader — someone who connects with players, develops young talent, and earns the respect of the room.

“Marco impressed us at every step with his preparation, clarity, and passion. His path — playing for multiple NHL teams, coaching internationally, and leading at both the AHL and NHL levels — has shaped a well-rounded coach who’s earned this opportunity.”

It also helped Sturm’s case that as a former Bruin himself, he knows Boston.

That being said, Sturm’s return comes 15 years after playing for the B’s. In that decade and a half, he finished his playing career and got into the coaching ranks. He’s had a handful of opportunities on the international stage, as an NHL assistant and, most recently, an AHL head coach. That sort of experience is what the Bruins are banking on when it comes to Sturm having success (again) in the Hub.