Boston Bruins Name New Captain Ahead of 2025-26 Season
The Boston Bruins have officially entered a new era of leadership, naming Charlie McAvoy as the team’s captain ahead of the 2025-26 NHL season. The announcement, made Tuesday morning at TD Garden, ends months of speculation following the retirement of long-time captain Patrice Bergeron and the transitional period that followed.
McAvoy, 27, becomes the 21st captain in franchise history and is widely seen as a natural successor to the role. A cornerstone of the Bruins’ blue line since being drafted 14th overall in the 2016 NHL Draft, McAvoy has steadily developed into one of the league’s most dependable and dynamic defensemen. Over the years, he has not only demonstrated elite on-ice ability but also grown into a respected leader within the locker room.
“Charlie represents everything it means to be a Boston Bruin,” said Bruins General Manager Don Sweeney. “He’s tough, skilled, accountable, and leads by example both on and off the ice. We’re confident he’ll carry on the legacy of great Bruins captains with pride.”
Head coach Jim Montgomery echoed that sentiment, praising McAvoy’s communication, competitiveness, and dedication to the team. “He’s earned the trust of his teammates, the staff, and this city,” Montgomery said. “He’s vocal when needed, but more importantly, he’s always present and sets the standard.”
McAvoy, clearly emotional during the press conference, called the moment “one of the greatest honors” of his life. “To wear the ‘C’ for a franchise with such history and passion means the world to me,” he said. “Following in the footsteps of guys like Zdeno Chara and Patrice Bergeron, it’s something I don’t take lightly.”
Veterans such as Brad Marchand and David Pastrňák publicly expressed their support, with Marchand calling it a “perfect choice” and noting McAvoy’s “deep respect for Bruins tradition.”
As the Bruins look to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving Eastern Conference, McAvoy’s leadership will be critical to guiding a mix of seasoned players and rising young talent. With the captaincy now officially filled, all eyes are on the ice as Boston begins preparations for another playoff push—and a new chapter under Captain Charlie McAvoy.
