In the summer of 2022, the Bruins made the bold decision to fire head coach Bruce Cassidy. Under Cassidy's guidance, the team had successfully reached the Stanley Cup Playoffs in all six seasons, but their journey ended in a seven-game defeat to the Carolina Hurricanes in the Eastern Conference First Round the previous year. Cassidy's overall coaching record stood at an impressive 245-108-46, including a trip to the Stanley Cup Final in 2019, where they lost in seven games to the St. Louis Blues.
In hindsight, parting ways with Cassidy seemed like a wise move for the organization, especially after their record-breaking 65-win season led by first-year head coach Jim Montgomery. However, their playoff hopes were shattered when they squandered a 3-1 series lead against the eighth-seeded Florida Panthers. Meanwhile, Cassidy found success coaching the Vegas Golden Knights, leading them to the Western Conference Final.
The Bruins made significant moves during the off-season, assembling a formidable roster despite surpassing the salary cap. Nevertheless, their playoff performance left them feeling embarrassed after such a remarkable regular season.
Both coaches had successful debut seasons, though Cassidy currently holds the upper hand, coaching a strong Vegas team and striving for his first Stanley Cup as a head coach. Ultimately, it will be up to the fans to determine whether the Bruins made the right decision in choosing their head coach. The outcome will depend on the team's performance in the coming years and how they cope with the imminent loss of their captain.
Source: Bleacherreport
POLL | ||
21 MAI | 91 ANSWERS Was getting rid of Bruce Cassidy a good or bad thing Who was the better coach? | ||
Montgomery | 45 | 49.5 % |
Cassidy | 46 | 50.5 % |
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