The Boston Bruins remain in rebuilding mode following the departure of legend Brad Marchand to the Florida Panthers, and they are now focused on designing a stronger forward group for the upcoming 2025-26 NHL season. With David Pastrnak as the franchise star, head coach Marco Sturm will rely on a new addition who brings depth to the roster.
After finishing the 2024-25 campaign with a 33‑39‑10 record and placing eighth in the Atlantic Division, well outside the playoff picture, the Bruins‘ management decided to take a new direction by hiring Sturm as head coach.
Financially, the Bruins have a solid core built around their top star Pastrnak, who carries an $11.25 million AAV salary. Charlie McAvoy and Jeremy Swayman will also be key pieces in a lineup that still has salary cap flexibility to continue making moves.
Who is the player re-signed by the Bruins?
Sturm’s Bruins finalized a one-year, two-way contract with forward John Farinacci for the 2025-26 season, carrying an NHL cap hit of $775,000. The young forward made his NHL debut on April 15, 2025, against the New Jersey Devils, scoring his first career goal in a 5-4 overtime loss.
John Farinacci of the Bruins during his stint in the Arizona Coyotes
Farinacci’s path began when he was selected in the third round of the 2019 draft by Arizona. He then spent the past two seasons on an entry-level contract, earning an average of $950,000 in the NHL and $83,000 in the AHL. Now, he’ll have the chance to earn more ice time and prove he has the potential to support Pastrnak.
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Farinacci’s standout season
At age 24, Farinacci received the call from Sturm and management for a stronger opportunity on Boston’s main roster. He played primarily with the Providence Bruins, appearing in 58 games and tallying 38 points (10 goals and 28 assists) during the 2024-25 season.
