In his second year as head coach, Montgomery is also a strong contender for the Jack Adams Award for the second year in a row, an accolade given to the NHL's top head coach.
The 2023-24 season for the Boston Bruins hasn't been about breaking the records set by their forerunners. Despite the retirement of long-time centers Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci in the off-season, and the loss of crucial players to NHL free agency and trades, the team has surpassed expectations. Currently, under the guidance of the current Jack Adams Award holder, the Bruins have a record of 25-8-9.
A segment of Boston Bruins supporters might withhold their forgiveness towards Montgomery until the team reaches the Stanley Cup Final, or perhaps wins it, under his leadership as head coach. There's a part of the Bruins' fan community that, justifiably, still holds grievances against Montgomery for the way he managed the goaltending during the team's seven-game first-round defeat to the Florida Panthers in the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs.
Boston Bruins captain Brad Marchand expressed to the media how significant it was for him and his fellow players to help Montgomery return to the NHL All-Star game, especially since he had faith in a team that was once again overlooked by everyone.
