Coach Jim Montgomery, who was hired by the Boston Bruins last summer, has been named a finalist for the Jack Adams Award. This award is presented annually by the NHL Broadcasters’ Association to the coach who contributed the most to his team’s success. Montgomery led the Bruins to a remarkable regular-season success, setting new NHL records for wins and points in a single season. They were also the best defensive team in the NHL and its second-best offensive team. However, the Bruins lost in the first round of the Stanley Cup playoffs.
Lindy Ruff Leads New Jersey Devils to Second Greatest Year-Over-Year Improvement
Lindy Ruff, the coach of the New Jersey Devils, has also been named a finalist for the Jack Adams Award. Ruff led the Devils to the second greatest year-over-year improvement in NHL history. The team finished with 112 points in the standings, 49 points more than their total from the previous season. They set new franchise records for points and wins. All of this success came after fans in New Jersey were chanting for Ruff’s firing amid a slow start to the season.
Dave Hakstol Leads Seattle Kraken to First Playoff Berth
Dave Hakstol, the first coach in Kraken history, has been named a finalist for the Jack Adams Award as well. Hakstol led Seattle to a 40-point improvement over its inaugural season, and the team’s first playoff berth. The Kraken were the fourth-highest-scoring team in the NHL. They also went from a minus-69 goal differential to a plus-33 goal differential this season.
Final Thoughts
The Jack Adams Award recognizes the hard work and dedication of NHL coaches in leading their teams to success. Montgomery, Ruff, and Hakstol have proven themselves to be exceptional coaches, each contributing to their team’s success in unique and impressive ways. While only one coach can win the award, all three finalists should be proud of their accomplishments this season.
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