The Boston Bruins know expectations have not changed.
Charlie McAvoy and David Pastrnak both addressed that reality this week as the team prepares for a season unlike any in recent memory. Boston enters training camp without a captain, a new coach behind the bench and a roster reshaped by last year’s disappointment.
McAvoy, who returned to full health after an injury cut short his 2024-25 campaign, acknowledged the responsibility he and Pastrnak now share. Both wore the “A” last season and have become the [central voices in the room](https://www.masslive.com/bruins/2025/09/for-bruins-leadership-has-new-faces-and-a-new-purpose.html) since Brad Marchand’s departure. He explained that leadership requires balance.
“You don’t want to change too much of who you are,” McAvoy said. “But that doesn’t mean that we can’t become better versions of ourselves, better hockey players, better people.” His comments were transcribed by Matt Vautour of MassLive.
Roughly 25 players joined Tuesday’s informal skate at Warrior Arena. More are expected before camp opens Sept. 15. Pastrnak, who usually spends most of his offseason overseas, returned early to Boston to help set the tone. He stressed that the Bruins have never leaned on just one figure, even during the Patrice Bergeron and Zdeno Chara years.
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“Our main focus is to bring the team together and be competitive every single night,” Pastrnak told reporters.
Last season’s 33-39-10 finish forced a reset that sent out familiar names and put pressure on the current core. Pastrnak refused to frame it as rebuilding.
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“The expectation is always the same here,” he said Tuesday. “You play for Original Six, they are very high, and they will always be here.”
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Boston’s stars are clear. They expect to be competitive.
Featured image via Jason Mowry/USA TODAY Sports Images