Bruce Cassidy is a former professional ice hockey player and current head coach of the Boston Bruins in the National Hockey League (NHL). He began his career in the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) with the Ottawa 67's, where he played from 1982 to 1984. He was then drafted by the Chicago Blackhawks in the first round of the 1983 NHL Entry Draft.
Cassidy played for several teams during his NHL career, including the Blackhawks, the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Calgary Flames, and the Ottawa Senators. He also played in the American Hockey League (AHL) and the International Hockey League (IHL). In total, he played in 36 NHL games and scored 7 points.
After retiring as a player, Cassidy began his coaching career in the IHL with the Indianapolis Ice. He then moved on to coach in the AHL with the Grand Rapids Griffins and the Providence Bruins. In 2002, he was named head coach of the Washington Capitals, where he coached for two seasons.
Cassidy then returned to the AHL, coaching the Chicago Wolves and the Providence Bruins before being named an assistant coach for the Bruins in 2008. He was promoted to head coach in 2017, leading the team to the playoffs in each of his first three seasons and winning the Jack Adams Award as the NHL's best coach in 2020.
Throughout his career, Cassidy has been known for his ability to develop young players and his strong leadership skills. He has also been praised for his strategic thinking and his ability to make adjustments during games.
Overall, Bruce Cassidy has had a successful career in hockey, both as a player and a coach. He has played at the highest level of the sport and has coached several successful teams, including the Boston Bruins. His contributions to the game have earned him a place among the most respected figures in hockey today.
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