The Boston Bruins, established in 1924, are a professional ice hockey team based in Boston and compete in the National Hockey League (NHL) as part of the Atlantic Division in the Eastern Conference. As the third-oldest active team in the NHL and the oldest in the United States, the Bruins are among the Original Six NHL teams, alongside the Detroit Red Wings, Chicago Blackhawks, Montreal Canadiens, New York Rangers, and Toronto Maple Leafs. With six Stanley Cup championships, they share the fourth-most victories with the Blackhawks and rank second for NHL teams based in the United States.
The Bruins initially played at the Boston Arena, now Matthews Arena, the world's oldest indoor ice hockey facility still in use. After 67 seasons at the Boston Garden, they moved to the TD Garden in 1995.
In 1924, the Boston Bruins joined the NHL under owner Charles Adams, adopting the name "Bruins" and distinctive colors. Led by stars like Eddie Shore, they won the Stanley Cup in 1929 and again in 1939. The post-war era saw challenges, but the acquisition of Bobby Orr in the 1960s marked a turning point, leading to Cup victories in 1970 and 1972.
Subsequent decades brought highs with stars like Ray Bourque, and in 2011, they secured their third Stanley Cup. Recent seasons saw consistent playoff appearances, reaching the Finals in 2013 and winning the Presidents' Trophy in 2014. Despite records in the 2022-23 season, the Bruins faced playoff disappointment in 2023, losing to the Florida Panthers in seven games after initially leading 3-1.
Boston Bruins mascot Blades the Bruin
Blades the Bruin, an anthropomorphic bear, is the official mascot of the Bruins. During January and February, Blades embarks on a tour across the greater Boston area to generate funds for the Bruins Foundation. In several recent TV and online advertisements, another anthropomorphic bear, referred to simply as "The Bear," takes center stage in official Bruins video promotions.
Boston Bruins mascot history
Blades the Bruin holds a special place in the hearts of Boston Bruins fans as the iconic team mascot since 1999. Notably, Blades is unique among bears, as he defies the hibernation norm.
Blades' hockey enthusiasm began with an encounter with legendary player Johnny Bucyk playing pond hockey with local kids. Sneaking into Bucyk's truck, Blades found himself at the Boston Garden, where the generous Bucyk shared snacks, creating a lasting bond.
The mascot's name, Blades, was given by fan Jillian Dempsey, now a Boston Pride PHF player. Blades has become a beloved presence at Bruins' games, known for his spirited energy.
Boston Bruins mascot Blades the Bruin Salary
Unfortunately, the exact salary of Blades the Bruin is not publicly available information. Mascots, especially beloved ones like Blades, tend to keep their finances private.
The average salary for National Hockey League mascots is between $30,000 and $40,000 annually, plus benefits. Blades has been entertaining fans since 1999, accumulating years of experience and popularity.
Considering these factors, Blades' salary could be somewhere between $50,000 and $75,000 per year. He's definitely not underpaid for the joy and dedication he brings to the Boston Bruins and their fans.
Blades the Bruin funny incidents
While specific incidents are not much known, Blades is recognized for captivating fans with his lively energy throughout games and various events.
FAQs
A: Blades serves as the official mascot, bringing energy to games and fundraising for the Bruins Foundation during tours.
A: Blades goes against the usual bear habit of hibernation, managing to be both a bit scary and cute at the same time.
A: Blades has been the mascot since 1999, starting his hockey journey with pond hockey and forming a lasting bond with Johnny Bucyk.
A: Blades' salary is not disclosed, but NHL mascot averages range from $30,000 to $40,000 annually. With experience and popularity, Blades' salary might be between $50,000 and $75,000 per year.
A: The Boston Bruins was founded in 1924. They are the third-oldest active team in the NHL and the oldest in the United States.
