Boston Bruins appreciated head coach Bruce Cassidy’s contribution to the team’s Stanley Cup Finals run last season, so they decided to reward the 54-year-old with a new deal. The team confirmed on Wednesday that they gave Cassidy a multi-year extension, but didn’t disclose further details.
“Peace of mind not only for Butch but for ourselves and probably the players a little bit too,” – said general manager Don Sweeney about the deal. “He’s earned the right to lead this club.”
Cassidy took over as the Bruins’ head coach in early 2017, replacing Claude Julien. Since then, he led the team to a 117-52-22 record and a playoff appearance in each of his three seasons with the team.
Under Cassidy, Bruins reached Stanley Cup Finals before losing the trophy to St. Louis Blues in seven games.
“I think it’s a good marriage,” – said Cassidy after inking the deal. “I think it’s worked well for both sides. So, for me, it’s where I wanted to be.
Bruce Cassidy spent the majority of his coaching career with the minors. His only other NHL head coaching job was with the Washington Capitals, who hired him as a head coach in 2002. Although Cassidy reached the Conference Quarterfinals in his first season with the team, Capitals decided to fire him the following year after he opened the season with an 8-18-1 record.
“As for getting a second chance, you never know. I always hoped I’d get one” – Cassidy added. “I think every coach will tell you that … they’d like to learn from their mistakes and get another kick at the can. I did, thankful for it and it’s worked out well so far.”
