Bruins coach Jim Montgomery faced criticism over the weekend after cameras caught him berating team captain Brad Marchand on the bench during a game. In the third period of Saturday’s 2-1 overtime loss to the Utah Hockey Club, Marchand turned the puck over in the offensive zone, leading to what appeared to be a game-tying goal for Utah. Though the goal was overturned after an offside review, Montgomery still confronted Marchand, even giving him a slight shove on the shoulder after his fiery outburst.
Montgomery’s reaction sparked conversation, especially with the Bruins starting the season with a 3-3-1 record. However, Marchand defended his coach when speaking on Thursday, saying, “People are too sensitive these days. If you make a mistake like that, you deserve to hear about it.” He added that he appreciated Montgomery’s response, insisting that it’s important for coaches to hold players accountable.
Montgomery also addressed the situation, noting that there’s no need for further discussion between him and Marchand. “We’re both emotional, but it’s done and over with,” Montgomery said. He highlighted Marchand’s experience and ability to take tough criticism, making him the target of the coach’s frustration in that moment.
This is not the first time Montgomery has openly called out star players, as he similarly challenged David Pastrnak before a pivotal Game 7 against the Maple Leafs in May, a challenge Pastrnak responded to by scoring the series-winning goal. Marchand, acknowledging his mistake, emphasized that accountability should apply to everyone in the Bruins’ locker room, and said he expected the criticism from Montgomery and his teammates.
