The Boston Bruins are approaching the 2025-26 season facing several significant transitions, including updated jerseys, a revamped coaching staff, and the likely absence of an officially designated captain. Head coach Marco Sturm recently informed the media that he is not rushing to appoint a captain, preferring to assess the leadership dynamics within the team before making a decision.
Defenseman Mason Lohrei Addresses Leadership Without a Formal Captain
When asked about the Bruins’ decision to potentially forgo naming a captain, young defenseman Mason Lohrei expressed confidence that the team’s leadership will remain effective regardless. Speaking on The Hockey Hub podcast with NESN’s Sophia Jurksztowicz and Kasey Hudson, Lohrei highlighted the strength of the team’s leadership core.
We have a lot of natural-born leaders and guys that have been through it and been on long runs,
Lohrei said.
With the whole group leadership mindset, by committee, that’s how it’s always been, at least the past two years and what I’ve heard about before.
Veteran Players Providing Steady Leadership in the Locker Room
Several Bruins veterans such as David Pastrnak, Charlie McAvoy, and Hampus Lindholm have already taken on leadership roles among the younger players. This was symbolized during the unveiling of the team’s new jerseys, where Pastrnak and McAvoy were each seen wearing the alternate captain’s “A,” indicating the team may rely primarily on alternate captains rather than appointing a single captain.
Lohrei further elaborated on this collective leadership approach, emphasizing that the group functions well as a unit.
Those guys are all going to lead in their own ways, but they’re also going to lead together,
he stated.
We have a lot of guys that can step up in different moments and say things.
Implications for Bruins’ Future Leadership and Team Dynamics
With a leadership model that relies on the collective rather than an official captain, the Bruins hope to sustain a strong team culture and cohesion during the upcoming season. The absence of a designated captain may foster a more inclusive environment where multiple players share responsibility, potentially positioning the Bruins to adapt fluidly as they face challenges throughout the season.