The Boston Bruins are heading into the 2025-26 season with several major decisions looming — and naming a new captain is near the top of the list.
Following the trade of Brad Marchand at the 2025 trade deadline, the Bruins opted not to assign the captaincy for the remainder of the season, leaving a leadership void that now needs to be addressed.
General manager Don Sweeney, speaking on the “100% Hockey” podcast, didn’t reveal much but emphasized that the process will be thoughtful and deliberate.
“We’re going to go through that process organizationally,” Sweeney said. “We need to reestablish our leadership core. A lot has changed in the last few years, and I believe this is something that should happen naturally, not be forced.”
Boston’s leadership mantle has shifted significantly over the past decade — from Zdeno Chara’s 14-year run as captain, to Patrice Bergeron’s three seasons, and then Marchand. Now, all three are gone, and the Bruins must decide who steps in next.
David Pastrnak and Charlie McAvoy are the leading candidates. Both have worn the “A” and grown into leadership roles within the organization, and either could realistically be the next player to wear the “C.”
“We’ve got some great guys eager to step up,” Sweeney added. “A year ago, we anticipated this transition post-Bergeron, but it didn’t fully come together. Now it’s time to reestablish that identity.”
Before the captaincy is decided, though, the Bruins must first find their next head coach. Sweeney confirmed that interim coach Joe Sacco will be among the candidates, but the team intends to conduct a thorough coaching search before making a decision.
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