In the Boston Bruins’ ongoing coaching search, Jay Leach surprised everyone by meeting with them in person.
Following their interview with Jay Leach on May 29, the Bruins have expanded their list of potential coaches.
The Boston Bruins have yet to select their next head coach, but the list of contenders is growing and now includes a person with extensive knowledge of the team.
Although the initial excitement has been driven by names like Marco Sturm, Jay Woodcroft, and Mitch Love, Jay Leach has emerged as a contender.
Fluto Shinzawa of The Athletic reports that on May 29, Leach met with the Bruins in person. Leach is now seen as one of the candidates for the position, a source informed Shinzawa.
A well-known individual who is intimately acquainted with the Bruins
Considering his experience, it isn’t shocking that Leach is in the conversation.
This past season, he was Boston’s assistant coach, which gave him a close-up look at the current group.
Before that, from 2017 to 2021, he served as head coach of the Providence Bruins, where he worked closely with a number of players who are now important NHL contributors.
Leach has a clear advantage over outside contenders because of his knowledge with the system and the people in the room.
Because he contributed to its creation, he is aware of the team’s identity and principles.
Leach’s coaching credentials were expanded to include the Seattle chapter.
Leach served as the Seattle Kraken’s assistant coach for three seasons from 2021 to 2024 following his tenure in Providence.
During the club’s early years, he mostly worked with the defense and penalty kill, which helped to define the group’s early character.
In addition to his work in AHL development, those years gave him invaluable NHL experience that completes his resume.
He is a versatile option who can bridge the Bruins’ present and future because of his experience with both seasoned pros and up-and-coming talent.
Bruins evaluating experience, continuity, and long-term fit
While Leach’s name is now in the mix, Boston’s front management still has other options on the table.
Sturm has extensive experience as an assistant coach and abroad. Woodcroft has served as team captain.
Love’s quick ascent in the AHL has drawn attention.
But Leach brings something a little different: a strong bond with the Bruins organization, recent bench time in the NHL, and a track record of producing players in their own system.
One thing is certain as the search goes on: the Bruins are taking their time.
They are assessing fit in addition to resumes. And Leach might be just what they’re searching for, given everything he contributes.
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