Locked On Bruins - Daily Podcast On The Boston Bruins

The Boston Bruins cannot afford to go into the 2025–26 season with Joonas Korpisalo as Jeremy Swayman’s backup. On today’s episode of Locked On Boston Bruins , Ian McLaren breaks down why Korpisalo’s contract and play are holding the team back, compares the pros and cons of a buyout vs. burying his deal in Providence, and explains why Michael DiPietro — fresh off an AHL Goaltender of the Year camp...

In this episode of Locked On Boston Bruins , host Ian McLaren sits down with hockey historian Mike Comito, author of the upcoming book Bruins365 . They explore Mike’s path from his hockey roots to writing acclaimed history books, and the unique process behind creating a team-specific collection of stories. From underappreciated Bruins like Doug Mohns, to fan favorites like Cam Neely, the conversat...

The Locked On NHL Top 100 list is coming — and if it doesn’t include these Boston Bruins, the rankings are broken. David Pastrnak is a Top 10 player in the league, Charlie McAvoy is a top defenseman, and Jeremy Swayman is (still) one of the NHL’s best goalies. Those three are locks. But what about Hampus Lindholm and Morgan Geekie? Ian McLaren makes the case for why both deserve consideration base...

In this episode of Locked on Boston Bruins, host Ian McLaren discusses recent trade rumors surrounding Casey Middlestadt and argues against moving him before the season starts. He emphasizes the potential value Middlestadt brings to the team's forward depth and scoring. McLaren also highlights the importance of Hampus Lindholm's return from injury, noting his impact on the Bruins' defense and over...

James Hagens, the Bruins' 2025 first-round pick, decides to return to Boston College for the 2025-26 season. This episode explores Hagens' mature decision-making process, his development path, and what it means for the Bruins' future. The podcast delves into Hagens' summer experiences, including training with NHL players and meeting Adam Sandler. It highlights the young prospect's team-first menta...

Ian McLaren hosts the Locked On Bruins podcast, discussing the team's over/under point projection of 80.5 for the upcoming season. He analyzes the Bruins' contract efficiency, highlighting concerns with recent signings like Elias Lindholm and Tanner Jeannot. McLaren argues for potential improvement, citing Jeremy Swayman's expected bounce-back and the return of key defensemen Charlie McAvoy and Ha...

The Boston Bruins have played in some of the NHL’s most iconic outdoor games—and won most of them. But which ones stood the test of time? On today’s episode of Locked On Boston Bruins , host Ian McLaren ranks all five official outdoor games the B’s have played, from the snowy spectacle at Fenway in 2010 to the postcard-perfect (but fanless) showdown at Lake Tahoe. You’ll hear the story behind ever...

After thinking it over all weekend, host Ian McLaren makes the case that the Bruins are making a mistake by not naming David Pastrnak captain. He explains why every NHL team needs a clear leader—and why Pasta is the obvious choice in Boston. Plus: NHL.com projections for top Bruins players, fantasy outlooks, and a breakdown of the team's top five prospects heading into the 2025-26 season. Support...

This episode of Locked On Bruins discusses key developments for the Boston Bruins. The team will not name a captain to start the season, with Charlie McAvoy and David Pastrnak sharing leadership duties. James Hagens is likely returning to Boston College for another year, aiming to win championships before joining the Bruins. The podcast also examines early odds for the upcoming NHL season, which d...

In this fun Friday episode of Locked on Boston Bruins, host Ian McLaren explores the top hockey movies of all time. He ranks classics like Mighty Ducks, Slap Shot, and Miracle, while also discussing lesser-known gems like Indian Horse and Ice Guardians. The podcast delves into the debate of whether Happy Gilmore qualifies as a hockey movie, ultimately placing it in the top 10. McLaren also preview...

Ian McLaren hosts this episode of Locked on Boston Bruins, offering an early look at Atlantic Division power rankings. He analyzes each team's offseason moves and predicts the Bruins could finish fifth, potentially securing a wild card spot. McLaren discusses the Panthers' retention of key players, Tampa's consistent strength, and Montreal's promising young core. He expresses concerns about Toront...

In this episode of Locked On Bruins, host Ian McLaren analyzes the Boston Bruins' potential performance for the upcoming 2025-26 season. He examines the team's schedule, projecting their record through March and April. McLaren discusses the challenges the Bruins face in making the playoffs, considering their current roster and recent acquisitions. He highlights key players like Charlie McAvoy, Ham...

In this episode of Locked On Boston Bruins, host Ian McLaren interviews Kasey Hudson of NESN about the Bruins' offseason moves. They discuss new head coach Marco Sturm, free agent signings, and potential lineup changes. Kasey shares insights on James Hagens’ development, the team’s captaincy situation, and what to expect from the Bruins this upcoming season. The conversation also explores the team...

In this episode of Locked on Boston Bruins, host Ian McLaren explores the potential of the Bruins pursuing Mason McTavish from the Anaheim Ducks via offer sheet. He analyzes the implications, costs, and feasibility of such a move, considering the Bruins' cap space and draft picks. McLaren also delves into the unique January and February schedule for the upcoming season, highlighting a crucial stre...

In this episode of Locked On Boston Bruins, host Ian McLaren breaks down the team’s 2025-26 schedule for November and December. From key divisional matchups against Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal to a challenging West Coast road trip, Ian examines the Bruins’ chances of climbing back into the playoff race after a rocky start. He also dives into the latest news out of Columbus, where Yegor Chinakhov...

The NHL schedule release brings excitement for Boston Bruins fans, with a packed October featuring emotional matchups. The podcast delves into key games, including Brad Marchand's return to TD Garden with the Florida Panthers. Host Ian McLaren analyzes the challenging start, highlighting back-to-back games and a tough Western road trip. The Bruins face crucial Eastern Conference battles as they ai...

In this episode of Locked On Bruins, host Ian McLaren discusses recent developments and pressing questions for the Boston Bruins. He covers John Farinacci's one-year contract signing and analyzes his potential role in the organization. McLaren explores whether top prospect James Hagens should turn pro or return to Boston College, weighing the pros and cons of each option. The podcast also addresse...

In this episode of Locked On Boston Bruins, host Ian McLaren breaks down the latest storylines surrounding the black and gold. He dives into the renewed controversy involving Don Cherry and Ron MacLean, including Bobby Orr’s public defense of Cherry. McLaren also reacts to Jakub Voracek’s endorsement of David Pastrnak as Bruins captain, touches on recent jersey number changes, and discusses what M...

Don Cherry is one of the most recognizable — and polarizing — figures in hockey history. In this episode, Ian McLaren takes a deep dive into Cherry’s complicated legacy, from his days coaching the Boston Bruins to multiple division titles and heartbreaking playoff exits, to his transformation into the loudest voice on Coach’s Corner . With new comments from Cherry disputing claims about his exit f...

The NHL Draft Lottery is set for May 5th, and the Boston Bruins have a crucial pick in the 2025 first round. Host Ian McLaren discusses the importance of hitting on this selection, given the team's poor season and low fan sentiment. He analyzes the Bruins' draft odds and potential picks, emphasizing the need for an impact player to rebuild trust and excitement. McLaren explores top prospects like...

Ian McLaren, host of the Locked On Boston Bruins podcast, discusses potential rooting interests for Bruins fans in the Stanley Cup playoffs. He analyzes each matchup, considering former Bruins players and coaches now with other teams. McLaren favors the Jets, Stars, and Oilers in the West, while leaning towards the Capitals and Senators in the East. He also touches on draft lottery implications fo...

The Boston Bruins' current season is compared to the early episodes of a beloved sitcom, highlighting the team's struggles and potential for growth. This episode previews the upcoming game against the Detroit Red Wings and examines the Bruins' draft lottery odds, exploring possible outcomes through simulations. The focus is on player evaluation, with key figures like Brandon Carlo, Charlie Coyle,...

Ian McLaren hosts the Locked On Boston Bruins podcast, answering AI-generated mailbag questions about the team's roster, prospects, and offseason strategy. He discusses potential line combinations, Victor Arvidson's role, and Fabian Lysell's NHL readiness. McLaren evaluates Don Sweeney's offseason moves, grading various aspects like coaching hires and draft picks. He addresses the Bruins' efforts...

Will Zellers is emerging as one of the Boston Bruins’ most exciting prospects, combining elite goal-scoring talent with a growing commitment to the defensive side of the game. This episode explores Zellers’ background—from his basement shooting gallery in Minnesota to his record-setting USHL season—and explains why the Bruins targeted him in the Charlie Coyle trade. The focus then shifts to the hi...

In this episode of Locked On Bruins , Ian McLaren breaks down Boston’s quiet approach to 2025 free agency — and whether it signals a bigger play for the stacked 2026 UFA class. He unpacks the surprising five-year deal given to Tanner Jeannot, exploring the market for the physical winger and what it says about the Bruins’ evolving identity. The show concludes with a heartfelt tribute to former enfo...