The Boston Bruins, a team long defined by its physical identity during the Brad Marchand era, are turning to Tanner Jeannot in hopes of recapturing that bruising style. After finishing last in the Atlantic Division during a disappointing 2024–25 campaign, the Bruins responded by signing Jeannot to a five-year, $17 million contract aimed at injecting toughness back into the lineup.
The 6-foot-2, 220-pound winger arrives from the Los Angeles Kings after a lackluster season in which he tallied only 13 points and 89 penalty minutes. Despite those modest numbers, Boston believes Jeannot can play a key role in re-establishing the intimidating identity that defined the team during its peak years.
While general manager Don Sweeney refrained from making splashy acquisitions in free agency, the addition of Jeannot sends a clear message. Along with the trade for Viktor Arvidsson, the Bruins are seeking impact players who can contribute on the ice while embracing the franchise’s trademark edge.
“We’re going to be a team that teams aren’t going to be wanting to go against,“ Jeannot told The Boston Globe. “When they see the Boston Bruins coming into town, they know it’s going to be a fight… That’s been the Bruins culture, and I’ve always tried to embody that type of culture.”
Tanner Jeannot #10 with the Los Angeles Kings skates with the puck during the second period against the Dallas Stars at American Airlines Center on February 28, 2025 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
Jeannot’s enthusiasm for joining the team is rooted not only in his playing style but in his desire to help shape a rebound season in Boston. He sees himself as a fitting piece in the club’s long-standing reputation for grit and resolve.
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The value Bruins’ proposition
Boston’s investment in Jeannot isn’t built on scoring alone. However, offensive production will matter. Last season’s seven-goal mark isn’t likely to cut it on a team looking to return to playoff relevance. If Jeannot can push that number closer to the 15–20 goal range, while providing physical insurance for skill players, the deal will be seen as solid value.
At an average annual value of $3.4 million, the cap hit is manageable. But if Jeannot can’t make an impact beyond hits and fights, the contract risks becoming a liability over time.
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What impact do you expect the former Kings winger’s signing to have on the Bruins in the post-Brad Marchand era?
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Final takeaway
In the post-Marchand era, the Bruins are banking on Tanner Jeannot to help restore their bite. While the signing won’t dominate headlines, it aligns with a strategic shift back to the core values that once made Boston a perennial contender. Jeannot now has the platform — and the pressure — to prove he can do more than just drop the gloves.
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