Boston Bruins CEO Charlie Jacobs is sending a bold message to fans: expect a return to playoff action next season, despite this year's disappointing last-place finish and significant player trades.

"We've had extensive discussions about this: If our current squad stays healthy and we make the right additions this summer, I'm confident we'll be competing for playoff spots and meaningful hockey by 2026", Jacobs asserted.

This season was particularly rough for the Bruins, who ended at the bottom of the Atlantic Division with just 76 points—their worst points percentage in 18 years. Earlier this season, the team made headlines when they fired head coach Jim Montgomery just 20 games in and traded away beloved players like captain Brad Marchand, center Charlie Coyle, and defenseman Brandon Carlo.

Team president Cam Neely expressed disappointment, stating, "We fell way short and it's disappointing for us and our fans. They deserve better after more than a century of support. This is our chance to regroup and rebuild."

General Manager Don Sweeney laid out plans to expedite the team's return to contention, with a clear focus on boosting offensive capabilities, especially on the wings. "We need to enhance our scoring potential this summer," Sweeney stressed, noting the team ranked 28th in the NHL for goals per game, despite star David Pastrnak's impressive 43 goals.

Sweeney emphasized a return to the Bruins' traditional identity as a strong defensive team, citing issues with goaltending performance. Both Jeremy Swayman, recently signed to an eight-year, $66 million extension, and Joonas Korpisalo struggled this season, failing to meet expectations on goals saved.

"Our goaltenders have been solid in the past. This year, however, they weren't as effective, and our defense needs to step up," he acknowledged.

Injuries also plagued the team, with key defensemen Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm missing substantial time—all elements that the Bruins are hoping to improve next season.

In terms of coaching, Sweeney and Neely are in the process of selecting the next head coach, following Joe Sacco's stint as interim coach with a record of 25-30-7. While Sweeney noted Sacco will be a finalist for the full-time position, the search for a new head coach is actively moving forward.

Sweeney himself faces uncertainty, as he is entering the final year of his contract after serving as GM since 2015. Neely is weighing the decision on whether to extend Sweeney’s contract, stating, "I still contemplate the best course of action. Overall, I believe Don has done a commendable job."