Locked On Bruins - Daily Podcast On The Boston Bruins

Boston Bruins ride Alex Steeves’ breakout surge to topple the St. Louis Blues. Is GM Don Sweeney responsible for the biggest steal in NHL free agency?

Ian McLaren breaks down the Bruins’ 5-2 victory, spotlighting Steeves’ relentless offensive output alongside Elias Lindholm and Morgan Geekie. Key topics include Jim Montgomery’s rough TD Garden return, Victor Arvidsson’s growing impact, and crucial depth contributions with stars like David Pastrnak and Charlie McAvoy sidelined. Hear the latest on Boston’s power-play improvements, defensive resilience with a depleted blue line, and McAvoy’s recovery from his brutal facial injury.

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Boston Bruins confront an identity shift as Jim Montgomery returns to TD Garden, seeking redemption with the St. Louis Blues. Can Marco Sturm’s new leadership withstand mounting injuries and retool the roster for playoff contention?

Ian McLaren explores Montgomery’s dramatic exit and instant rebound, the Bruins’ defensive overhaul, and the ripple effects of losing stars like Charlie McAvoy and David Pastrnak. The episode spotlights Boston’s depleted blue line, rising prospects like Fraser Minton and Marat Khusnutdinov , and trade rumors swirling around Connor Garland. 

As the Bruins prepare to battle Montgomery’s Blues, key topics...

Boston Bruins face mounting adversity as injuries decimate their blue line—can they stay afloat in the playoff race without David Pastrnak and Charlie McAvoy? Defensive call-ups like Michael Callahan and Jonathan AspiroT step up, but the pressure is on with penalty minutes surging and the offense struggling to generate high-danger chances.

Ian McLaren breaks down the Bruins’ tough loss to the Detroit Red Wings, highlighting Morgan Geekie’s expanded role and Jeremy Swayman’s challenge behind a depleted defense. Key insights include the significance of recent lineup changes, expected recalls, and playoff implications with rivals like the Toro...

Boston Bruins face a pivotal stretch as David Pastrnak’s unexpected injury sidelines their top scorer, threatening their Eastern Conference standing. Can the Bruins maintain playoff momentum without their MVP, especially as games against the Red Wings and other rivals loom large?

Ian McLaren breaks down the implications of Pastrnak’s absence, Boston’s injury woes including Charlie McAvoy and Henry Jokiharju, and the rise of Morgan Geekie’s offensive output. Key topics include the Bruins’ reliance on Jeremy Swayman’s red-hot goaltending, Victor Arvidsson’s return to the lineup, and growing penalty trouble that tests the team’s depth. ...

Boston Bruins hesitate on trading a first-round pick for Kiefer Sherwood despite his strong start, eyeing Connor Garland as a more reliable upgrade. Could Garland’s proven track record and local ties make him the perfect second-line addition ahead of the holiday trade freeze?

Ian McLaren assesses the team’s potential trade strategies and reviews Boston’s gritty weekend split—highlighting Morgan Geeky’s scoring surge and Jeremy Swayman’s stellar performance against the Detroit Red Wings. Key topics include injury updates on David Pastrnak, Charlie McAvoy, and lineup implications for young stars like Fabian Lysell and Matt Poitras...

Boston Bruins primed for a lineup shakeup as Fabian Lysell’s highlight-reel goal captures NHL attention. Is the skilled AHL winger set to ignite the Bruins’ offense? Ian McLaren analyzes Lysell’s NHL-ready form, evaluates underperforming forwards like Matej Blümel, and weighs the team’s need for dynamic scoring versus tried-and-true two-way play. Could a Lysell recall be the move that sparks a push up the Atlantic Division standings?

Morgan Geekie’s improbable breakout takes center stage, fueled by a unique developmental story—and vintage Pat Falloon sticks. Ian McLaren highlights Geeky’s rise among the NHL’s top goal...

Boston Bruins surge as Jeremy Swayman’s dominant goaltending rattles the Eastern Conference—can they keep this momentum all season long?

Ian McLaren breaks down Swayman’s spectacular 44-save performance against the New York Islanders, spotlighting his November turnaround and its implications for Boston’s playoff hopes. The podcast covers Alex Steeves’ breakout two-goal night, Fabian Lysell’s scoring exploits with the Providence Bruins, and the impact of injuries to Casey Mittelstadt and Victor Arvidsson. Key storylines include the Bruins’ current standings, the point-percentage race in the Atlantic Division, and how recent AHL call-ups could reshape the forward lines...

Boston Bruins stare down a critical stretch as Morgan Geekie’s unexpected scoring surge powers their offense—can his hot streak help Boston climb the Eastern Conference or will management shift focus to a roster retool? With trade rumors swirling around the NHL and GM Don Sweeney weighing whether to buy, sell, or hold, the Bruins risk getting caught in NHL “no man’s land” at a pivotal point in the season.

Ian McLaren examines how Geekie’s goal-scoring and standout performances from David Pastrnak, Jeremy Swayman, and others are shaping the team’s outlook. Get the latest on inju...

Morgan Geekie's scoring surge sparks Olympic debate—should Team Canada risk leaving its hottest goal scorer off the 2026 roster? With Don Sweeney’s Bruins influence on the selection committee and names like Connor McDavid, Nathan MacKinnon, and Brad Marchand in the mix, the competition is fierce. Geekie’s prolific output—leading all NHL players in goals since January—challenges the status quo and raises eyebrows across the hockey world.

Ian McLaren breaks down the Boston Bruins’ current struggles, analyzing recent losses, penalty issues, and the impact of injuries to Charlie McAvoy, Casey Middlestadt, and Victor Arvidsson. The episode feat...

The Boston Bruins left vital points on the table in California, risking a prime season from David Pastrnak and breakthrough scoring from Morgan Geekie. Can Boston tighten up and reclaim playoff contender status before it's too late?

Ian McLaren breaks down the Bruins’ costly penalty troubles, the surge of Geeky—who now sits tied with Nathan MacKinnon atop NHL goal totals—and the impact of injuries to Elias Lindholm, Casey Mittelstadt, and Victor Arvidsson. Key topics include Boston’s alarming league-worst net penalty rating, lost chances against the San Jose Sharks and Los Angeles Kings, and how playoff...

Boston Bruins face a potential collapse as underlying analytics point to trouble, despite outperforming early-season expectations and impressive showings from David Pastrnak and Morgan Geekie. Can Jeremy Swayman’s resurgence in net steady the defense, especially with Charlie McAvoy sidelined and key forwards injured?

Ian McLaren assesses the evolving playoff landscape, breaking down the Bruins’ strengths in power play and secondary scoring while exposing concerning trends in defensive stats, high-danger chances allowed, and an alarming save percentage split between Swayman and Joonas Korpisalo. As the team heads into critical road matchups against the LA Kings and San Jose...

Boston Bruins defense collapses after Charlie McAvoy’s devastating facial injury—can they survive without their top blueliner? Morgan Geekie’s spectacular two-goal night vaults him to the top of the NHL goals leaderboard, but defensive lapses and late-game blunders leave fans questioning Boston’s playoff trajectory.

Ian McLaren spotlights the Bruins’ struggles on the back end, especially with heavy minutes falling to Henry Jokiharju and Jonathan Aspirot. With Elias Lindholm and other key players sidelined, is Boston stuck in tank mode, or poised for a turnaround? Key topics include Nikita Zadorov’s leadership, Jeffrey Viel’s eventful outin...

Boston Bruins face fan backlash after losing first-round pick John Beecher to the Calgary Flames for nothing. Does prioritizing grit over asset management jeopardize the team’s future?

Ian McLaren breaks down the controversial Beecher waiver decision, dissecting head coach Marco Sturm’s candid assessment and GM Don Sweeney’s approach to roster construction. The show spotlights Jeffrey Viel’s unexpected rise, the short-term impact on the Bruins’ lineup, and possible long-term consequences for their depth and playoff chances. 

Atlantic Division power rankings and advanced stat models paint a mixed picture for Boston, while injuries to Charlie...

Boston Bruins face adversity as injuries threaten their Atlantic Division lead - can they maintain momentum with key players sidelined and a challenging West Coast road trip ahead?

Ian McLaren breaks down the Boston Bruins’ tough loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, emphasizing Marco Sturm’s candid remarks on the team’s physical and mental fatigue. With Charlie McAvoy possibly out following a facial injury and forwards Victor Arvidsson and Casey Middlestadt on injured reserve, the Bruins’ lineup is in flux. 

Recent recalls Matej Blumel and Riley Tufte inject fresh energy, but John Beecher’s waiver placement r...

Boston Bruins outlast Montreal Canadiens in a heated rivalry win, but lose Charlie McAvoy and Victor Arvidsson to injury. Can this resilient squad hold onto Atlantic Division supremacy despite key absences?

Ian McLaren breaks down the Bruins’ gritty performance, featuring Nikita Zadorov’s statement fight, a flawless 7-for-7 penalty kill, and David Pastrnak’s offensive dominance. The episode analyzes Jeremy Swayman’s stellar goaltending, the impact of mounting penalty minutes, and looming lineup challenges as Riley Tufte and Matej Bluemel may get the call from Providence. Looking ahead, Ian McLaren previews the Bruins’ matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes...

Boston Bruins collapse against Ottawa Senators, ending their seven-game win streak amid defensive miscues and penalty trouble. Can David Pastrnak and Morgan Geekie’s offensive heroics outweigh the team’s ongoing breakdowns as they prepare for a heated showdown with the Montreal Canadiens?

Ian McLaren analyzes the self-inflicted mistakes that cost the Bruins, from Hampus Lindholm’s ill-advised breakout to Mason Lohrei’s costly penalty. The discussion spotlights Geekie’s scoring surge—now second in the NHL—and marks Pastrnak’s milestone 402nd career goal. Key takeaways include penalty management woes, Montreal’s vulnerable yet dangerous roster, and the high stake...

Boston Bruins spark heated captaincy debate as Nikita Zadorov’s grit challenges David Pastrnak’s franchise status. Can a throwback identity fuel a deep playoff run?

Ian McLaren breaks down why Zadorov deserves the “C”, citing his physical play, team-first mentality, and inspiration from the 2011 Stanley Cup squad. Detailed analysis highlights Pastrnak’s emotional leadership, recent 400th goal celebration, and the powerful unity driving the Bruins’ seven-game win streak. Key discussion points include the revived power play, defensive concerns exposed by advanced stats, and make-or-break showdowns against the Ottawa Senators and Atlantic Division rivals. With critical road tests loomin...

Boston Bruins bury Toronto Maple Leafs as David Pastrnak hits 400 goals and ignites the Atlantic Division race. Can Boston’s momentum silence the rebuild skeptics and propel them to the top?

Ian McLaren breaks down the Bruins’ seventh consecutive win, fueled by Pastrnak’s milestone, strong leadership, and a high-energy celebration that showcased the squad’s unity. Analysis covers Toronto’s struggles, Marco Sturm’s influence behind the bench, crucial contributions from Nikita Zadorov, Hampus Lindholm, and Pavel Zacha, plus the impact of key injuries. With the Bruins tied for first in the Atlantic Division and buy-in across the r...

Boston Bruins surge into playoff contention with a six-game win streak, but are underlying numbers exposing a looming regression? Is strong goaltending from Jeremy Swayman and Joonas Korpisalo masking defensive concerns, or can the Bruins’ high shooting percentage and timely play maintain their momentum?

Ian McLaren breaks down the Atlantic Division power rankings, questions the sustainability of Boston’s recent success based on expected goals data, and previews tonight’s showdown with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Key topics include Mason Lori’s emergence, Casey Middlestadt’s injury, Fraser Minton’s impact, and the return of Charlie McAvoy. Special cove...

Boston Bruins stun Toronto Maple Leafs with Fraser Minten’s clutch performance and a jaw-dropping game-winner. Did Don Sweeney pull off the trade of the year by landing Minten for Brandon Carlo?

Ian McLaren breaks down Boston’s sixth straight victory, focusing on Minten’s standout night and Marco Sturm’s rave review. The show highlights Mason Lohrei’s productive return, Jeremy Swayman’s bounce-back in net, and Morgan Geeky’s scoring surge. Discussion covers the Bruins’ defensive strengths, issues with high-danger chances, and how injuries to Elias Lindholm, Casey Mittelstadt, and Charlie McAvoy are shaping the roster. With tou...

Boston Bruins silence critics with gritty overtime win against the Ottawa Senators—has Marco Sturm’s blueprint finally taken hold?

Ian McLaren spotlights the Bruins’ dramatic midseason turnaround, fueled by All-Star performances from Charlie McAvoy, Hampus Lindholm’s return, and the emergence of a grinder mentality. Hear how Sean Kuraly, Morgan Geeky, and Pavel Zacha are driving a five-game win streak while Jonathan Aspiro and Andrew Peeke solidify the blue line. The episode examines Boston’s defensive resurgence, elite goaltending from Jeremy Swayman and Jonas Korpisalo, and the impact of the new player-driven Grinder Award. Looking ahead, Ian McLare...

Boston Bruins face mounting pressure as trade rumors swirl around Mason Lohrei while he remains scratched despite his dynamic puck-moving skills. Will management risk losing a coveted young defenseman, or will Lohrei’s offensive upside force a lineup change before other teams swoop in?

Ian McLaren analyzes the “Mason Lohrei conundrum,” crunching stats on shot differentials, zone deployments, and plus-minus to reveal what’s really at stake for Bruins blue line depth. The episode covers Jonathan Aspirot’s steady play, goaltending struggles for Jeremy Swayman and Linus Ullmark, and the team’s need for secondary scoring. 

A preview o...

Boston Bruins surge past New York Islanders with Marat Khusnutdinov’s electrifying heroics and a four-game winning streak. Can Boston’s youthful energy transform their season? Ian McLaren spotlights Khusnutdinov’s game-tying goal and shootout winner, Fraser Minton’s promotion to the top line alongside David Pastrnak, and head coach Marco Sturm’s faith in emerging talent as the Bruins adapt without top center Elias Lindholm.

Key discussion points include Victor Arvidsson and Casey Mittelstadt finding their stride, persistent concerns over Boston’s shot deficits, and the rising impact of young players in pivotal matchups. The episode examines the...

Boston Bruins weigh Pavel Zacha’s future amid trade rumors—could moving him send the wrong message to David Pastrnak? Ian McLaren examines Zacha’s hot start, his pivotal role as a versatile forward, and why Boston’s front office sees him as a core piece rather than trade bait. Insights include Zacha’s contract value, his chemistry with Casey Mittelstadt and Victor Arvidsson, and the ripple effect of team decisions on Pastrnak’s commitment.

Atlantic Division power rankings shake up as the Bruins claw back from a rocky start, battling to stay out of the basement. Ian McLaren...

The Bruins are finding their identity through defensive structure and physicality. Host Ian McLaren breaks down Boston's 2-1 victory over Carolina, highlighting Jeremy Swayman's bounce-back performance and the dominant pairing of Charlie McAvoy and Nikita Zadorov. The episode examines Marco Sturm's coaching philosophy through Mason Lohrei's benching—a clear message about defending before creating. McLaren analyzes the team's three-game winning streak while acknowledging they remain at .500 with the lowest point percentage in the Eastern Conference. Jonathan Aspirot earns Bruin of the Day honors for his steady, under-the-radar play filling in on the blue line. With secondary scoring emerging from Ca...

The Boston Bruins secured a thrilling 4-3 overtime victory against the Buffalo Sabres, with Marat Khusnutdinov netting his first goal of the season as the hero. After being a healthy scratch for over a week, Khusnutdinov seized his opportunity on the first line alongside Elias Lindholm and David Pastrnak. Morgan Geekie's scorching streak continued with his ninth goal in six consecutive games, keeping pace with Pastrnak as the NHL's top scorers since January. Joonas Korpisalo earned his second straight start over Jeremy Swayman, validating coach Marco Sturm's decision to ride the hot hand. The win marks three victories in...

The Boston Bruins sit dead last in the Atlantic Division despite several powerhouse teams struggling alongside them. Ian McLaren breaks down the division's bottom-dwellers—including Toronto, Florida, and Ottawa—all hovering at .500 while Boston languishes below with a 5-7 record and the worst goal differential. He previews tonight's crucial matchup against Buffalo, a vulnerable opponent the Bruins desperately need to beat. Meanwhile, the Providence Bruins are flying at 7-0, led by Riley Tufte's scorching 11 points in seven games. McLaren makes a compelling case for recalling Tufte and shaking up the NHL roster, questioning whether struggling players deserve their spots over...

The Boston Bruins are fighting to stay relevant in a season full of turbulence. Despite sitting at the bottom of the Eastern Conference, back-to-back wins have sparked a hint of optimism — capped by a 5–2 comeback victory over the Islanders. Hampus Lindholm’s return gave the defense new life, while Morgan Geekie’s red-hot streak — now eight goals and counting — continues to drive the offense. The power play came through with two key tallies, signaling long-awaited progress on special teams.

Host Ian McLaren breaks down how this win fits into the bigger question surrounding the Bruins: Are they clawing back...

The Locked on Boston Bruins podcast dissects the team's 7-2 loss to Ottawa, highlighting defensive struggles and questioning player commitment. Host Ian McLaren examines coach Marco Sturm's comments on lack of "buy-in" and the team's poor performance across key metrics. The episode explores potential roster changes, including trade rumors and AHL call-ups. It also previews the upcoming game against the New York Islanders, emphasizing the need for disciplined play and improved defensive awareness. McLaren stresses the importance of the Bruins establishing their identity and responding to Sturm's challenge, as they face a structured opponent that could expose their current...

The Locked On Boston Bruins podcast recaps the Bruins' 3-2 victory over the Colorado Avalanche, ending a six-game losing streak. Host Ian McLaren highlights key performances, including Jeremy Swayman's 31 saves and the team's 34 blocked shots. Victor Arvidsson is named Bruin of the Day for scoring his first goal with Boston and making crucial defensive plays. The podcast analyzes game statistics, noting Colorado's dominance in possession and scoring chances despite the loss. McLaren previews upcoming games against Ottawa, New York Islanders, Buffalo, and Carolina. He discusses potential lineup changes for the Ottawa game, including goaltender options and the absence of...

The Boston Bruins dropped their sixth straight game in regulation — a 7–5 loss to the Anaheim Ducks that left players and coaches calling the performance “embarrassing."

Host Ian McLaren breaks down what went wrong, including the defensive breakdown that led to Troy Terry’s game-winning goal, and head coach Marco Sturm’s admission that he’s “surprised” by how poor Boston’s defensive play has become.

Plus: what Sturm said about roster limitations, and why this weekend’s matchup with the Avalanche could define the Bruins’ season.

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In this episode of Locked on Boston Bruins, host Ian McLaren analyzes the team's recent struggles and current standing in the NHL. Despite a five-game losing streak, McLaren remains cautiously optimistic, noting close games against tough opponents. He discusses the Bruins' underlying statistics, highlighting areas of concern like shot attempt differential and high-danger chances. McLaren explores potential lineup changes, suggesting the promotion of AHL talent to boost offensive production. The episode concludes with a preview of the upcoming game against the Anaheim Ducks, emphasizing its importance as a winnable matchup for the Bruins to regain momentum.

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Brad Marchand's emotional return to TD Garden as a Florida Panther takes center stage in this episode of Locked On Bruins. Host Ian McLaren breaks down the 4-3 Panthers victory, highlighting Marchand's two-assist performance and the Bruins' ongoing struggles. The podcast explores the bittersweet nature of Marchand's departure, balancing the team's need to rebuild with the loss of a franchise icon. McLaren analyzes the game's key stats, discusses the Bruins' recent five-game losing streak, and examines coach Marco Sturm's postgame comments. The episode concludes with reflections on Marchand's legacy and the team's path forward in a competitive Atlantic Division.<...

Brad Marchand returns to TD Garden as a Florida Panther, stirring emotions for Boston Bruins fans. 

Today's Locked on Boston Bruins podcast explores Marchand's impact during his 16-year tenure with the organization, his trade to the Florida Panthers, and the complexities of his departure. 

Host Ian McLaren emphasizes the need for Boston to balance honoring Marchand's legacy with focusing on winning the game. 

The episode also updates Atlantic Division power rankings, highlighting surprising starts for teams like Detroit and Tampa Bay. 

Plus, a preview of the Bruins-Panthers matchup, analyzing key stats and...

The Locked On Boston Bruins podcast breaks down Boston’s four-game losing streak and the deeper issues fueling it. Host Ian McLaren examines why the Bruins can’t seem to finish — from their lack of 5-on-5 scoring and weak shot generation to head coach Marco Sturm’s tough-love tactics, including benching David Pastrnak and scratching Casey Mittelstadt.

McLaren analyzes how Pastrnak responded with a two-goal effort in Utah, what the numbers reveal about the team’s offensive collapse, and whether this slide signals a repeat of last season’s struggles. Plus, an emotional look ahead to Boston’s upcoming mat...

Today's Locked on Boston Bruins podcast dissects the team's recent loss to the Vegas Golden Knights, highlighting defensive lapses and special teams struggles. Host Ian McLaren praises the fourth line's performance while noting the top six's ineffectiveness. The episode explores Marco Sturm's defensive philosophy and the team's evolving identity. McLaren analyzes key stats, discusses lineup adjustments, and previews upcoming games against Colorado and Utah. The podcast emphasizes the need for disciplined play and consistent effort across all lines. It also touches on the Bruins' position in the Atlantic Division and individual player performances, including Jeremy Swayman's solid start to...

Marco Sturm’s Boston Bruins are all in — literally. The team bonded over a poker tournament in Las Vegas ahead of Thursday’s matchup against the defending Stanley Cup champion Golden Knights.

Host Ian McLaren breaks down what this kind of off-ice chemistry says about Sturm’s leadership, gives the latest update on Hampus Lindholm’s injury status, and previews a massive early-season test for the Bruins in Vegas.

Plus:
🏒 How Jordan Harris has stepped up during Lindholm’s absence
🎲 Why team-building matters in Sturm’s first year behind the bench
💪 What Boston must do to beat...

Host Ian McLaren breaks down the Boston Bruins’ 3-1 start to the season and introduces a new weekly feature — The Bruins Barometer, where we decide whether to buy, hold, or sell on the team’s performance.

This week, the call is HOLD. Ian explains why, pointing to encouraging signs like improved special teams, balanced scoring, and Jeremy Swayman’s strong goaltending, while cautioning that it’s still early days.

He also previews a crucial three-game road trip through Vegas, Colorado, and Utah — a stretch that will reveal just how legitimate this Bruins start really is. Plus, a look...

The Boston Bruins’ 3-1 start to the 2025-26 season isn’t smoke and mirrors — it’s the result of structure, buy-in, and leadership under Marco Sturm.
Host Ian McLaren breaks down why Boston’s early success looks real this time:

David Pastrňák’s takeover as the team’s emotional and on-ice leader.

Improved special teams driving momentum in key moments.

Depth scoring that’s finally supporting the top line.

Jeremy Swayman’s rebound form anchoring the group.

Ian also ranks the Atlantic Division through two weeks — with Boston sitting second...

In this episode of Locked On Bruins, host Ian McLaren analyzes the Boston Bruins' first loss of the season to the Tampa Bay Lightning. Despite the 4-3 defeat, McLaren highlights positive takeaways, including the team's resilience in battling back from a three-goal deficit. He discusses key performances from players like David Pastrnak, Casey Mittelstadt, and Jordan Harris, while also addressing areas for improvement such as reducing turnovers. McLaren compares the current roster to past seasons, suggesting potential for a playoff push. The episode concludes with a look at upcoming challenging games against Vegas, Colorado, and Utah, as well as...