Jim Montgomery, the former head coach of the Boston Bruins, recently reflected on his experiences in Boston as he prepares to face his old team with the St. Louis Blues. Montgomery was dismissed on November 19, 2024, after the Bruins started the season with a record of 8-9-3.
Return to Boston with the Blues
As Montgomery returned to TD Garden, he expressed a mix of emotions, recounting the fond memories from his time in Boston. He highlighted the remarkable 2022-23 season, in which the Bruins achieved a record 65 wins and he earned the Jack Adams Coach of the Year Award. However, Montgomery also remembered the disappointments of the playoffs, particularly the first-round exit against the Florida Panthers.
Quick Transition to the Blues
Montgomery joined the Blues just five days after his firing from the Bruins. While he appreciated the quick transition, he admitted he was still trying to process his dismissal. “I was in the mode of ‘Where did I go wrong? What did I do wrong?’” he stated, noting the challenge of moving on too quickly.
Reflections on Coaching Success and Challenges
During his time in Boston, Montgomery compiled an impressive record of 120 wins, 41 losses, and 23 overtime losses. After his move to St. Louis, he helped the Blues find their footing and earn a playoff spot. He reflected on the importance of personal growth in both professional and personal contexts, indicating that he focuses on his actions rather than blaming others for failures.
- Montgomery’s record with the Bruins: 120-41-23
- Firing date: November 19, 2024
- Bruins’ 2022-23 season wins: 65 (NHL record)
- Playoff performance: First-round loss to Panthers
Legacy and Relationships in Boston
Montgomery spoke fondly of his time in Boston, mentioning that he and his family enjoyed every aspect of their stay. He remained on good terms with the Bruins’ leadership, including president Cam Neely and general manager Don Sweeney. Although many players he coached are no longer part of the roster, he cherishes the relationships he built with the staff and support teams.
Reflecting on his current coaching season with the Blues, Montgomery noted that his past experiences in Boston have better prepared him to cope with the challenges in St. Louis. He emphasized that high expectations can shape the team’s dynamics, drawing an analogy to the movie-going experience.
Looking Ahead
As Montgomery continues his journey with the Blues, he remains optimistic. He believes every coaching experience contributes to overall growth, which will aid in navigating the ups and downs of the current season. Montgomery’s keen understanding of both success and failure positions him well for future challenges in the competitive NHL landscape.
