Locked On Bruins - Daily Podcast On The Boston Bruins

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.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Rugiet
Ready to...

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.

Support...

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...

Fraser Minten’s overtime goal wasn’t just a highlight — it was a statement about what kind of team the 2025-26 Boston Bruins want to be.

Through two games, head coach Marco Sturm has his group playing with structure, purpose, and edge. The Bruins are 2-0 to start the season, and even this early, they just feel different.

Host Ian McLaren breaks down all the key takeaways from Boston’s 4-3 OT win over the Chicago Blackhawks, including:

How Fraser Minten, Tanner Jeannot, and Mikey Eyssimont are setting the tone on the Bruins’ new third...

The Marco Sturm era in Boston is officially underway — and it started exactly how he drew it up.
The Boston Bruins defeated the Washington Capitals 3–1 on opening night behind David Pastrňák’s three-point performance and a 35-save gem from Jeremy Swayman. Host Ian McLaren breaks down how Sturm’s system shined, with defensive layers, blocked shots, and disciplined special teams leading the way.

In today’s episode:

It’s Opening Night for the Boston Bruins — and this season feels like a toss up.
Host Ian McLaren breaks down both sides of the coin:
✅ Why the Bruins can return to the Stanley Cup Playoffs — including a Vesna-level Jeremy Swayman, a healthy blue line led by McAvoy and Lindholm, and Marco Sturm’s renewed defensive structure.
🚫 And why they might not — lingering scoring depth issues, a brutal Atlantic Division, and a “grit-over-skill” roster philosophy that could limit offense.

Plus: the team’s new alternate captains, Opening Night preview vs. Washington, and Bruin of the Day: Justin Braze...

The Boston Bruins are embracing a new identity under head coach Marco Sturm — one built on structure, accountability, and, as Cam Neely put it, “a little piss and vinegar.”

Ian McLaren breaks down the key takeaways from the Bruins’ start-of-season press conference:

Plus: the front offi...

The Boston Bruins have made their final roster decisions — and they’re choosing grit over skill once again. Jeffrey Viel beats out Matej Blümel and Matthew Poitras for the last forward spot, signaling Marco Sturm and Don Sweeney’s commitment to a heavy, hard-to-play-against identity heading into the 2025-26 NHL season.

Host Ian McLaren breaks down what Viel’s inclusion means for Boston’s lineup philosophy, the ripple effects for Poitras and Blümel, and whether the Bruins risk losing scoring depth for free.

Then, Jeremy Swayman’s 30-save performance in a 4-1 preseason win over the N...

Locked On Bruins podcast is your daily podcast that drops the puck and keeps you ahead of the game and the first to know the latest news, analysis, and insider info for the Boston Bruins and the National Hockey League.

David Pastrnak has been left out of the NHL’s Top 10 player rankings again — sitting at No. 11 despite leading the league in goals over the past three seasons. 

Host Ian McLaren breaks down why Pastrnak deserves Top 5 recognition, reacts to Charlie McAvoy being ranked 38th and Jeremy Swayman 85th, and recaps the Boston Bruins’ 3-1 preseason win over the Washington Capitals. 

Brett Harrison scored twice in his debut, Joonas Korpisalo stopped 33 of 34 shots, and Don Sweeney announced new roster cuts as the team gets closer to opening night.

Locked On Boston Bruins is your dail...

In this episode of Locked on Boston Bruins, host Ian McLaren analyzes the Atlantic Division's landscape for the upcoming NHL season. He predicts the top four teams as Tampa Bay, Florida, Toronto, and Montreal, discussing their strengths and recent changes. McLaren explores the challenges facing the Bruins in climbing the standings, highlighting the need for improved secondary scoring, goaltending, and defensive play. He examines the team's roster changes and the potential impact of young players. The podcast also covers recent comments from coach Marco Sturm on the expectations for rookies and touches on upcoming roster decisions, with a focus...

Can the Buffalo Sabres and Detroit Red Wings FINALLY snap their historically long playoff droughts? Can the Boston Bruins return to their usual winning ways after a disaster season? And are the Montreal Canadiens the class of this crop of four squads? In a special Atlantic Divison Hopefuls season preview, Joe DiBiase (Locked On Sabres), Brian Fisher (Locked On Red Wings), Ian McLaren (Locked On Bruins) and Ian Boisvert (Locked On Canadiens) link up to talk about life in the bottom half of the loaded Atlantic Division, and what the path to the playoffs looks like for each of...

In this episode of Locked On Bruins, host Ian McLaren analyzes Kirill Kaprizov's record-breaking contract with the Minnesota Wild and its implications for the Boston Bruins. He compares Kaprizov's performance to David Pastrnak's, highlighting Pastrnak's superior production and value on his current contract. 

McLaren discusses the Bruins' missed opportunity in drafting Kaprizov and explores potential future contract considerations for the team. The episode also touches on upcoming preseason games, roster decisions, and goaltending options as the Bruins prepare for their season opener against the Washington Capitals. 

McLaren concludes with a nostalgic nod to former Bruin Dm...

David Pastrnak returned to preseason action looking sharp, picking up an assist and throwing his weight around, while Jeremy Swayman made his first start in net with a mix of highlight saves and costly mistakes. 

The Bruins rolled out their “dress rehearsal” lineup in a 3-2 shootout loss to the Flyers, showing encouraging signs on defense and special teams but continued uncertainty in the middle six. 

The emotional highlight of the night came from Sean Kuraly, who scored in his TD Garden return just weeks after the passing of his father, Miami University Hall of Famer...

Hampus Lindholm returned to the Boston Bruins lineup for the first time since fracturing his patella last November, and Marco Sturm says the team finally played with the kind of detail he’s been demanding. Dalton Bancroft continues to impress after his standout career at Cornell, John Beecher scored a key goal, and Group A’s lineup looked almost identical to what we’ll see on opening night.

But oddsmakers still aren’t convinced, giving Boston just a 20% playoff probability — 15th in the Eastern Conference. Is that fair, or are the Bruins being underrated heading into 2025–26?

Ian McLare...

The Boston Bruins made their first real roster split on Thursday at Warrior Ice Arena, with Marco Sturm separating NHL regulars from bubble hopefuls as camp cuts loom. Ian McLaren breaks down what it means for players like Fabian Lysell and Johnny Beecher, while also examining the decision to move Matt Poitras to wing alongside Casey Mittelstadt and Tanner Jeannot.

Plus, the Bruins announced that Zdeno Chara is returning to the organization as a Hockey Operations Advisor and Mentor. Ian explains how Chara’s leadership and legacy will impact the current roster and young defensemen like Mason Lo...

What’s the best- and worst-case scenario for the Boston Bruins this season? Host Ian McLaren breaks it down on today’s Locked On Boston Bruins. The nightmare? Missing the playoffs by a single point — stuck in hockey purgatory with no playoff run and no draft lottery reward. The dream? Either winning the Stanley Cup or winning the 2026 NHL Draft Lottery, where elite prospects like Gavin McKenna, Keaton Verhoeff, and Ivar Stenberg headline a loaded class to join James Hagens in Boston’s future core. Most realistically, the Bruins project as a playoff team with limitations, leaning on Jeremy Swayman’...

The Boston Bruins erased a 4-1 deficit to beat the New York Rangers 5-4 in overtime at Madison Square Garden. Host Ian McLaren breaks down Mikey Eyssimont’s three-point third period, Joonas Korpisalo’s full 60-minute test amid glaring defensive miscues, and why Matěj Blümel, Casey Mittelstadt, and Marat Khusnutdinov are pushing for roster spots while Fabian Lysell and Matt Poitras remain on the bubble. Plus, Eyssimont is named Bruin of the Day after delivering the kind of energy and scoring touch Boston desperately needs.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Monarch Money
T...

David Pastrňák is back at Boston Bruins training camp after missing the opening days with knee tendinitis. He insists it’s nothing new — he played through it last season while posting 106 points — but should fans be concerned about his long-term health?

Host Ian McLaren breaks down Pastrňák’s return, including Marco Sturm’s reaction and the impact on Boston’s top line with Elias Lindholm and Morgan Geekie.

Then, The Athletic’s 2025–26 season preview projects the Bruins for just 79 points (27th overall) and a 16% playoff chance. Why do national analysts see Boston as closer to the draft...

The Boston Bruins opened their preseason with a 5-2 loss to the Washington Capitals, and it wasn’t pretty. Defensive miscues and Michael DiPietro’s shaky outing overshadowed Marco Sturm’s debut behind the bench. Host Ian McLaren breaks down what went wrong in the D-zone, why DiPietro may have missed his chance to seize the backup goalie role, and how it ties into the Bruins’ “redemption or repeat” storyline for 2025-26.

There were positives, though — Morgan Geekie scored on the top line with Elias Lindholm and Viktor Arvidsson, the Bruins played with more pace, and youngsters like Fraser Mi...

On today’s episode of Locked On Boston Bruins, Ian McLaren breaks down the biggest takeaways from Day 1 of training camp at Warrior Ice Arena.

Culture Reset: Head coach Marco Sturm is tearing down old locker room hierarchies by mixing veterans and prospects, with Nikita Zadorov praising the change as a way to build real chemistry from Day 1.

Pastrnak’s Tendinitis: David Pastrnak was the lone absence due to a precautionary knee issue, though Sturm stressed it’s not serious and Pasta was even skating on his own.

Line Combos: From Viktor Arvidsson fillin...

The Boston Bruins opened training camp with big news: David Pastrnak will miss the first few days due to tendinitis, but Don Sweeney calls it load management and expects him back early next week. Sweeney also confirmed the Bruins will not bring in any PTOs, signaling real opportunity for prospects like Fabian Lysell, Fraser Minten, and Matej Blümel to compete for roster spots.

Host Ian McLaren breaks down the key takeaways from Sweeney and Marco Sturm’s press conference, including:

Pastrnak’s injury timeline and what it means for the lineup and power play

...

In this episode of Locked On Boston Bruins, host Ian McLaren answers your top training camp questions. Can Michael DiPietro push past Joonas Korpisalo for the backup job? Who’s the better bounce-back bet — Jeremy Swayman, Elias Lindholm, or Nikita Zadorov? Ian breaks down Boston’s playoff chances, Don Sweeney’s offseason strategy, and the debate around the Tanner Jeannot contract. The episode wraps with a spotlight on Adam McQuaid, newly promoted to Director of Player Development, and his lasting impact on the Bruins organization.

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Indeed
Now, you can spee...

Locked On Boston Bruins host Ian McLaren dives into bold training camp predictions that could shake up the B’s: Nikita Zadorov wearing the ‘C,’ Tanner Jeannot becoming a TD Garden fan favorite, and the latest chatter on Pavel Zacha trade interest — including from the rival Montreal Canadiens. 

Then we zoom in on the realistic battles that will shape Boston’s opening night roster: Fabian Lysell’s chance to finally stick, Fraser Minten’s breakout potential, and whether Joonas Korpisalo survives camp. 

Plus, Fabian Lysell also gets the spotlight as today’s Bruin of the Day.

Support...

The Boston Bruins already have Nikita Zadorov and Elias Lindholm in black and gold — but could a full Calgary reunion be on the horizon? Host Ian McLaren talks about the possibility of adding Rasmus Andersson and Nazem Kadri:

Why Andersson would instantly stabilize Boston’s blue line, but comes with only one guaranteed season before free agency in 2026.

The real price of adding Kadri at $7M through 2029, including moving out Pavel Zacha and Casey Mittelstadt to fit the cap.

How Zadorov’s leadership and Lindholm’s steady presence could tie this Calgary connection together...