Locked On Bruins - Daily Podcast On The Boston Bruins

The NHL Draft Lottery is set for May 5th, and the Boston Bruins have a crucial pick in the 2025 first round. Host Ian McLaren discusses the importance of hitting on this selection, given the team's poor season and low fan sentiment. He analyzes the Bruins' draft odds and potential picks, emphasizing the need for an impact player to rebuild trust and excitement. McLaren explores top prospects like Matthew Schaefer, Michael Misa, and James Higgins, highlighting their strengths and potential fits for the Bruins. The podcast delves into the implications for GM Don Sweeney's future and the team's rebuilding efforts...

Ian McLaren, host of the Locked On Boston Bruins podcast, discusses potential rooting interests for Bruins fans in the Stanley Cup playoffs. He analyzes each matchup, considering former Bruins players and coaches now with other teams. McLaren favors the Jets, Stars, and Oilers in the West, while leaning towards the Capitals and Senators in the East. He also touches on draft lottery implications for Boston, explaining how the Philadelphia Flyers' final game could impact the Bruins' odds. The episode provides insight into off-season storylines, including coaching changes and player departures, while encouraging listeners to stay tuned for continued coverage...

The Boston Bruins' current season is compared to the early episodes of a beloved sitcom, highlighting the team's struggles and potential for growth. This episode previews the upcoming game against the Detroit Red Wings and examines the Bruins' draft lottery odds, exploring possible outcomes through simulations. The focus is on player evaluation, with key figures like Brandon Carlo, Charlie Coyle, and Brad Marchand auditioning for future roles. The podcast also discusses the team's position in the NHL standings and the implications of their performance for the draft. As the Bruins navigate this challenging period, the emphasis is on development...

Ian McLaren hosts the Locked On Boston Bruins podcast, answering AI-generated mailbag questions about the team's roster, prospects, and offseason strategy. He discusses potential line combinations, Victor Arvidson's role, and Fabian Lysell's NHL readiness. McLaren evaluates Don Sweeney's offseason moves, grading various aspects like coaching hires and draft picks. He addresses the Bruins' efforts to build around David Pastrnak and speculates on the team's future. The episode concludes with lighthearted questions about horror movie survival and walk-up songs, offering fans a mix of hockey analysis and pop culture fun.

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Will Zellers is emerging as one of the Boston Bruins’ most exciting prospects, combining elite goal-scoring talent with a growing commitment to the defensive side of the game. This episode explores Zellers’ background—from his basement shooting gallery in Minnesota to his record-setting USHL season—and explains why the Bruins targeted him in the Charlie Coyle trade. The focus then shifts to the hiring of Ryan Bourque as an assistant coach in Providence, examining how his playing and coaching experience can help shape Boston’s next generation. The episode highlights the Bruins’ broader commitment to development—on the ice and behind the...

In this episode of Locked On Bruins, Ian McLaren breaks down Boston’s quiet approach to 2025 free agency — and whether it signals a bigger play for the stacked 2026 UFA class. He unpacks the surprising five-year deal given to Tanner Jeannot, exploring the market for the physical winger and what it says about the Bruins’ evolving identity. The show concludes with a heartfelt tribute to former enforcer Lyndon Byers, honoring his legacy both on the ice and in Boston sports culture.

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The 2025 Boston Bruins Development Camp is in the books, and host Ian McLaren breaks down which prospects are rising, which ones still need time, and where Boston’s future core is taking shape.

James Hagens looked every bit the franchise center Boston’s been missing — but he wasn’t alone. Ian ranks the Bruins’ top prospects based on fantasy upside and NHL certainty, highlighting standouts like Fabian Lysell, Will Zellers, Cooper Simpson, Dean Letourneau, and William Moore.

We also dig into under-the-radar names like Chris Pelosi, Jonathan Morello, and Vashek Blanar, while checking in on the goalie...

Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Eddie Garcia (Locked On Kings, David Morassutti (Locked On Leafs) and Seth Toupal (Locked On Wild are here to talk about the big moves of free agency so far, including the Mitch Marner saga finally coming to an end, what the heck the LA Kings are doing, and where Nikolaj Ehlers is going to end up!

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In this episode of Locked on Bruins, host Ian McLaren analyzes the Boston Bruins' roster changes and their potential impact on the upcoming season. He examines the forward group, defense, and goaltending, comparing the current lineup to last year's team. McLaren discusses key additions like Casey Middlestadt and Victor Arvidsson, as well as the departure of veteran leaders. He explores the team's improved depth and speed, but also highlights uncertainties surrounding player performance and development. The podcast delves into the Bruins' playoff prospects, considering factors such as Jeremy Swayman's goaltending, Morgan Geekie's sustainability, and the integration of young talent...

The Boston Bruins made a flurry of free agent signings on July 1, but did Don Sweeney do enough to improve a roster that finished last in the Eastern Conference?

Host Ian McLaren breaks down the front office’s strategy and comments, starting with the addition of Victor Arvidsson and the controversial five-year deal for Tanner Jeannot. In Segment 1, we dig into why these two players were targeted, what Sweeney said about toughness and protection for younger players, and whether these moves align with his offseason pledge to boost scoring.

In Segment 2, Ian evaluates the rest of...

The Locked On Boston Bruins podcast breaks down the team’s free agency moves, beginning with the trade for Viktor Arvidsson. Host Ian McLaren evaluates each signing — including Tanner Jeannot, Sean Kuraly, and Michael Eyssimont — with a thumbs-up or thumbs-down approach. He questions the length and value of Jeannot’s five-year deal, especially given Boston’s stated focus on adding offense.

The episode also explores the ripple effect on top prospects like Matthew Poitras, Fabian Lysell, and Georgii Merkulov — and whether these new additions are blocking the path to NHL opportunities. McLaren offers a full assessment of Don Sweeney’...

The Boston Bruins aren’t wasting any time this offseason.

After a strong showing at the NHL Draft, GM Don Sweeney keeps the momentum going by signing breakout forward Morgan Geekie to a six-year extension. Host Ian McLaren breaks down why the deal makes sense for both sides — and why it was important to avoid another drawn-out negotiation like Jeremy Swayman’s.

Plus:
🔒 The Bruins lock up Henri Jokiharju, John Beecher, and Michael DiPietro — and we dig into what each signing means for the roster
🧾 Updated list of remaining free agents, including the surprising dec...

The Boston Bruins struck gold at No. 7 with James Hagens—a high-skill, high-upside center who could become the franchise cornerstone they’ve been missing. Host Ian McLaren breaks down why this was a best-case scenario for Boston, including quotes from Hagens and GM Don Sweeney, and analysis from NHL.com, The Athletic, and Dobber Hockey. Plus, a full recap of the Bruins’ Day 2 picks—including William Moore, Liam Pettersson, and Cooper Simpson—and why this draft class has fans feeling hopeful. Draft Grade: B, but with A+ potential if Hagens hits.

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In this episode of Locked On Bruins, host Ian McLaren sets the stage for the 2025 NHL Draft with a deep dive into Boston’s seventh overall pick. He breaks down the latest mock drafts and top prospects linked to the Bruins, including Caleb Desnoyers, Roger McQueen, Jake O’Brien, and potential slider James Hagens. McLaren also looks back at recent No. 7 overall picks—like Quinn Hughes and Clayton Keller—to gauge what kind of impact player the Bruins could land. Plus, he weighs the possibility of Don Sweeney trading up, staying put, or moving down the board. With the future of...

Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Eddie Garcia (Locked On Kings, David Morassutti (Locked On Leafs) and Armando Velez (Locked On Panthers) are here to talk about the upcoming NHL draft, any potential free agency surprises, and about Alexander Mogilny finally making it into the Hall of Fame!

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The Boston Bruins have officially revealed their new logos and uniforms for the 2025-26 season — and they did it with some serious Hollywood flair. Host Ian McLaren breaks down the Back to the Future-inspired reveal featuring Michael J. Fox and Charlie McAvoy, plus all the design changes and brand messaging behind the refresh.

Then, GM Don Sweeney met with the media ahead of the NHL Draft. We dig into his comments on:

Andy Brickley, former Bruins player and longtime NESN analyst, joins the Locked On Boston Bruins podcast to discuss the team's current state and future direction. Brickley shares insights on new head coach Marco Sturm, the upcoming NHL draft, and free agency priorities. He emphasizes the need to improve goaltending, team defense, and center play. Brickley also reflects on his playing days with the Bruins in the late 80s and early 90s, highlighting the team's success and culture during that era. The conversation touches on potential roster moves, leadership challenges, and expectations for the upcoming season as the Bruins aim...

The Bruins have signed Mason Lohrei to a two-year, $3.2M extension — but more offseason work remains. Host Ian McLaren breaks it all down in three segments:

🔹 Segment 1: Why the bridge deal makes sense and how Lohrei’s size, puck skills, and power play production point to top-four potential.

🔹 Segment 2: Defensive struggles exposed in 2024-25, including a league-worst -43 rating, and what Lohrei must improve to become a complete player.

🔹 Segment 3: Next priorities — re-signing RFAs like Geekie and Beecher, and filling the 2RD spot. Who could help: Fabbro, Ekblad, Jokiharju?

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The Boston Bruins unveil a new logo, signaling a return to tradition and a fresh era for the team. Host Ian McLaren discusses the rebrand, which features a classic Spoked B design from the 80s and 90s. The reveal video, narrated by Dennis Leary, emphasizes Boston's identity and grit. McLaren analyzes the players featured, including David Pastrnak and Charlie McAvoy, hinting at the team's future core. The podcast explores the significance of this change amidst recent departures and upcoming events like the NHL draft and free agency. McLaren also touches on Morgan Geekie's contract situation and the notable absence...

The Boston Bruins made a significant addition to their coaching staff, naming Steve Spott an assistant coach under Marco Sturm. In today’s episode, Ian McLaren breaks down what this hire means for the team heading into the 2025-26 season.

Segment 1: Why the Bruins Hired Steve Spott
A look at Spott’s impressive coaching resume, including his power play success with the Dallas Stars and years of experience in both the NHL and junior hockey. Marco Sturm praised his structure, teaching ability, and special teams expertise—and Ian explains why this is a great move for Boston...

Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Seth Toupal (Locked On Wild), David Morassutti (Locked On Leafs) and Zach Martin (Locked On Hurricanes) are here to talk about why the playoffs are lasting so long, how to fix that, whether the NHL will finally close the LTIR loophole some teams have been using, and what to make of the early Olympics roster announcements!

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With the 2025 NHL Draft fast approaching, the Boston Bruins are at the center of trade rumors, scouting buzz, and surprising mock draft predictions. In this episode, Ian dives into:

🔹 Segment 1: Bruins–Islanders trade talks heat up around Jean-Gabriel Pageau, Noah Dobson, and the 7th overall pick. Could Boston flip that pick for help now—or is a move up the board in play?

🔹 Segment 2: The Bruins are one of 12 NHL teams reportedly pursuing KHL breakout star Maxim Shabanov. We break down his offensive upside, roster demands, and why he could be a low-risk, high-reward fit in Boston...

Brad Marchand, former Boston Bruins captain, wins his second Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers. The podcast explores the bittersweet emotions of Bruins fans, proud of Marchand's achievement yet lamenting missed opportunities in Boston. It delves into the Bruins' recent struggles, their decision to trade Marchand, and the team's need for a full reset. The host analyzes Marchand's impact on the Panthers' championship run, his legacy with the Bruins, and the closing of an era in Boston. The episode reflects on what could have been for the Bruins in recent years and ponders the team's future as they aim...

This Locked On Boston Bruins episode discusses the selection of three Bruins players - David Pastrnak, Pavel Zacha, and Charlie McAvoy - for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Host Ian McLaren analyzes the pros and cons of NHL players participating in the Olympics, including potential injury risks and the impact on team chemistry. The episode explores other Bruins who might join the Olympic squads, such as Jeremy Swayman and Elias Lindholm. McLaren also reflects on past Bruins Olympians like Patrice Bergeron and Zdeno Chara, highlighting their contributions and the lasting impact of Olympic participation on their careers. The podcast concludes by...

The Locked On Boston Bruins podcast discusses the Bruins' acquisition of defenseman Victor Soderstrom from the Chicago Blackhawks. Host Ian McLaren analyzes why this low-risk, high-upside move could be the most underrated of the offseason. The episode breaks down Soderstrom's development since being drafted 11th overall in 2019, his potential fit with the Bruins, and the team's strategy in addressing their thin right-side defense. McLaren also touches on David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha being named to Czechia's Olympic roster, and explores a potential trade scenario involving Zacha and the Vancouver Canucks, weighing the pros and cons of such a move...

In this episode of Locked on Bruins, host Ian McLaren discusses David Pastrnak's underappreciated performance in Hart Trophy voting. Despite leading the NHL in 5-on-5 scoring and carrying a struggling Bruins team, Pastrnak finished 11th in MVP voting. McLaren argues that Pastrnak's value to the team was overlooked due to Boston's poor season record. The podcast also touches on the upcoming NHL draft, with the Bruins holding the 7th overall pick. McLaren examines recent mock drafts, highlighting potential selections like Jake O'Brien and Anton Frondell. The episode provides insight into Pastrnak's impressive stats and the Bruins' draft strategy as...

Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Seth Toupal (Locked On Wild) and Tom Callahan (Locked On Mammoth) are here to talk about how the Panthers are outclassing the Oilers, as well as the coaching drama happening in Dallas!

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Michael DiPietro, coming off a stellar season with the Providence Bruins, is drawing attention as a potential UFA. The podcast explores DiPietro's background, his impressive AHL performance, and the Bruins' goaltending situation. Host Ian McLaren discusses options for the Bruins, including re-signing DiPietro, trading his rights, or potentially moving Linus Ullmark to make room. The episode delves into the complexities of Boston's goaltending depth, with Jeremy Swayman as the undisputed number one and Ullmark's future uncertain. McLaren advocates for retaining DiPietro, emphasizing the importance of rewarding internal development and setting the tone for the Bruins' future in net.

Marco Sturm's introduction as the new head coach of the Boston Bruins signals a fresh direction for the team. Sturm, a former Bruin, brings a development-first mindset and a deep understanding of the organization's culture. The podcast delves into Sturm's coaching philosophy, emphasizing clear communication, player accountability, and a renewed focus on offensive strategy. Don Sweeney's insights on the team's offseason priorities, including potential trades and free agency moves, are explored. The episode highlights the Bruins' unique position with draft capital and cap space, suggesting significant roster changes ahead. Sturm's approach to rebuilding the team's leadership core and integrating...

Marco Sturm is set to be officially introduced as the new Boston Bruins head coach. The podcast discusses the coaching staff, with Chris Kelly, Jay Leach, and Bob Essensa retained as assistants. The team is seeking a new assistant to focus on special teams, particularly the penalty kill. The episode also delves into potential draft picks for the Bruins at seventh overall, highlighting prospects like Brady Martin, Jake O'Brien, and Porter Martone. Various mock drafts are analyzed, offering insights into who might be available when the Bruins make their selection. The podcast emphasizes the team's need for a top-six...

Brad Marchand is chasing a Stanley Cup with the Florida Panthers, but what if the Bruins had taken a different path?

In today’s episode, Ian McLaren breaks down the three main options Boston had before trading their captain:

Keeping him for the final year without an extension

Re-signing him long-term at full value

Trading him—either to Florida or somewhere with a better return

We weigh the pros and cons of each route and evaluate whether Don Sweeney and the Bruins made the smartest move possible—or simply the mo...

Marco Sturm returns to Boston as the new Bruins head coach, bringing a wealth of experience from his playing days and coaching stints in Germany, Los Angeles, and the AHL. This episode explores why Sturm's hiring is more than just nostalgia, delving into his player development skills, defensive structure, and ability to shape young talent. The podcast discusses how Sturm's approach could benefit players like Mason Lohrei, Matt Poitras, and Jeremy Swayman. It also highlights Sturm's connections to Bruins legends and his role in maintaining the team's strong culture. The episode emphasizes that this hire represents a forward-thinking move...

Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Eddie Garcia (Locked On Kings) and David Morassutti (Locked On Leafs) are here to talk about the Stanley Cup Final beginning and where Mitch Marner is going to go in free agency, as well as some other key free agents!

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Marco Sturm, former Boston Bruins player, is named the team's new head coach. This strategic hire blends familiarity with forward-thinking leadership, aimed at evolving the Bruins' offensive identity while maintaining their defensive core. Sturm's track record in player development and international coaching success positions him to guide the team through a pivotal transition. The podcast discusses Sturm's coaching philosophy, his impact on player development, and what his appointment means for the Bruins' future. With the NHL draft and free agency approaching, Sturm's hiring sets the tone for a new era in Bruins hockey, balancing accountability and long-term vision as...

In this episode of Locked on Bruins, host Ian McLaren explores potential trade targets for the Boston Bruins as they await a new head coach announcement. He analyzes the pros and cons of acquiring Elias Pettersson, Jason Robertson, and Martin Necas, discussing their potential impact on the team's roster and salary cap. McLaren weighs the risks and rewards of each player, considering their production, contract situations, and fit within the Bruins' system. The podcast also touches on the ongoing head coaching search, with Marco Sturm, Mitch Love, and Jay Leach emerging as top candidates. McLaren provides insights into the...

In this episode of Locked On Bruins, host Ian McLaren discusses Brad Marchand's recent comments about the Bruins' 2023 playoff collapse. Marchand, now with the Florida Panthers, revealed the team took their historic season for granted. McLaren explores whether Bruins fans should root for Marchand in the Stanley Cup Final, weighing the emotional impact of his departure against his legacy in Boston. The podcast also touches on the ongoing search for a new Bruins head coach, with potential candidates from the Dallas Stars organization. McLaren provides balanced perspectives on Marchand's evolution and the complex emotions Bruins fans may experience watching...

This episode of Locked on Bruins covers the latest developments in the team's head coach search, with potential candidates narrowed down to four. The host analyzes each candidate's strengths and expresses preference for Mitch Love or Marco Sturm. The podcast also discusses the upcoming Happy Gilmore 2 movie, exploring its connection to Bruins culture and the iconic jersey featured in the original film. The host expresses hope that the movie's release will coincide with the Bruins reverting to their classic 90s jersey design. Throughout, the episode blends team analysis with pop culture references, maintaining an engaging and informative tone for...

In this episode of Locked On Boston Bruins, host Ian McLaren tackles pressing questions about the team's future. He analyzes the head coach search, highlighting Marco Sturm and Mitch Love as top candidates. McLaren discusses the Bruins' most untouchable prospects, emphasizing Mason Lohrei's potential and the team's need for defensive depth. He also reflects on memorable rivalries from his lifelong fandom, including intense matchups with the Montreal Canadiens and Pittsburgh Penguins. The episode offers insights into potential trades, prospect development, and the evolution of team rivalries, providing fans with a comprehensive look at the Bruins' past and future.

Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Eddie Garcia (Locked On Kings) and Zach Martin (Locked On Hurricanes) are here to talk about what really matters in the playoffs: goaltending. Also, we discuss how to improve the regular season AND the playoff format, before swinging back to the playoffs to talk about the importance of physical players like Sam Bennett in the postseason!

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In this episode of Locked On Bruins, host Ian McLaren explores the possibility of the Boston Bruins pursuing Marco Rossi from the Minnesota Wild. McLaren presents both the "yay" and "nay" cases for acquiring Rossi, weighing the potential benefits of adding a 23-year-old, 60-point center against the cost of giving up a valuable 7th overall draft pick. He discusses Rossi's playing style, contract situation, and playoff performance concerns. McLaren also proposes various trade scenarios, including straight-up swaps and package deals involving prospects. The episode provides an in-depth analysis of how Rossi could fit into the Bruins' roster and long-term...