BOSTON (AP) – Marco Sturm experienced the passionate support of Bruins fans after being traded to Boston for the top overall draft pick, which later became NHL MVP Joe Thornton.
“I mean, that wasn't on me, right?” the former Bruins forward joked with reporters at a press conference where he was introduced as the team’s coach. “Coming in, it was tough. I won’t sugarcoat it. You read the news and social media, and the fans certainly make their opinions known.”
“But it motivates you, and I took it as a positive,” Sturm said. “I have so many fond memories here. I know the fans; as soon as they sense something good is happening, they rally behind you. I’m aware of that.”
With three Olympians and first-round draft picks who played five of their 14 NHL seasons with the Bruins, Sturm led Germany to a silver medal at the 2018 Pyeongchang Olympics and spent the following six years in the Los Angeles Kings organization.
The 46-year-old former left winger replaced Joe Sacco, who served as interim coach after Jim Montgomery was let go in November. Bruins general manager Don Sweeney mentioned the need to rebuild after the team failed to make the playoffs for the first time since 2016. “It was crucial to find a coach who understands our fan base and shares the same values – it’s incredibly challenging every night,” he said.
The Bruins seized the opportunity at a press conference in their office overlooking Causeway Street and TD Garden. Former captain Patrice Bergeron, who assisted Sturm’s overtime game-winner during the 2010 Winter Classic at Fenway Park, was front and center in a show of support. German chocolate cupcakes, a nod to the new coach’s heritage, were also provided.
Sturm mentioned that he had never considered coaching while he was playing, but his journey began with his role as head coach and general manager of the German national team in 2015 after he began coaching his kids.
“And that’s when I truly realized, ‘This is my path,'” he explained. “That’s where my passion lies. I’m good at this, and I intend to pursue it.”
He paused family time and lived in Los Angeles for six years, separated from his wife and children.
“I was pursuing my dreams,” Sturm said, adding that his children, now 19 and 21, had longed for Boston. “They grew up here. They’ve always wanted to come back, and now their wish is granted.”
Sturm noted that the Bruins not only have a coaching vacancy, but also boast strong goaltending from Jeremy Swayman and a solid core led by defenseman Charlie McAvoy and forward David Pastrnak. If healthy, they’re capable of pushing for the playoffs. Boston has also accumulated draft picks and young talent in preparation for the midseason trade deadline purging, which involved moving several veterans, including Brad Marchand, the sole remaining member of the 2011 Stanley Cup Championship team.
The Bruins ended the season with 76 points, having set an NHL record with 65 wins and 135 points while posting over 100 points in six consecutive seasons. Only weaker teams have faltered.
“All the effort — whether you’re in Boston or elsewhere — is a challenge. But it’s a welcome challenge. I appreciate the challenge,” Sturm said. “I’m aware of the expectations here. I know what it’s like. But as long as I’m focused on my preparations, I know I’ll be well-positioned.”
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Source: apnews.com