Bruins name Don Sweeney new general manager
The Boston Bruins have named Don Sweeney their eighth general manager in team history.
Team president Cam Neely announced the decision Wednesday morning.
Bruins' CEO Charlie Jacobs explained what made Sweeney the top candidate:
Don Sweeney stood out amongst an incredibly talented group of candidates that we considered for this hire. He carries a unique and impressive mix of playing experience, front office experience and business acumen. Don has complete understanding of what it means to be a Bruin and we have full confidence in him to steward the organization back to being Stanley Cup contenders year in and year out.
Sweeney said:
I am both excited and humbled for the opportunity to be named the General Manager of the Boston Bruins. I would like to thank the entire Jacobs’ family and specifically Mr. Jacobs and Charlie, as well as, Cam for bestowing the confidence and trust in me to direct this historic franchise in which I have been a part of for 24 years. My family and friends have been extremely supportive throughout the General Manager search process and I certainly want to acknowledge them today to show my heartfelt appreciation. I am fully aware of everyone’s expectations to move the organization forward. The challenges ahead rests with the players, the coaches and the management group to work hard to make the necessary changes to bring the Bruins back to the forefront of contending for the Stanley Cup.
The Bruins fired former GM Peter Chiarelli in April after the team missed the playoffs for the first time since 2006-07.
Sweeney was formally introduced as GM at a press conference Wednesday and said he was looking forward to the new role.
"I'm first and foremost, very, very excited and grateful for the opportunity," he said. "I'm excited about the challenge in front of us to get back to where we need to be."
The new GM said personnel changes will occur within the organization "in due time" and he's also spoken with head coach Claude Julien.
"He's the coach of the Boston Bruins, as of today," explained Sweeney. "I'm going to take the necessary time to evaluate."
Sweeney will take over after serving as the team's assistant GM.
He's been with the organization since 2006, coming on as the director of player development and also played 15 seasons with the Bruins from 1988-2003.