"I just don’t understand it": Boston legend Don Cherry baffled by Bruins trading away Brad Marchand and more players in big fire sale

By Abhilasha Aditi

Modified Mar 26, 2025 10:02 GMT

NHL: Tampa Bay Lightning at Boston Bruins - Source: Imagn — Don Cherry blasts Boston Bruins’ roster moves, predicts playoff miss (Source: Imagn)

Former NHL coach Don Cherry was surprised by Boston's recent roster changes, which include the departures of Brad Marchand, Brandon Carlo and Trent Frederic among others. He believes these moves have weakened the team and will hurt their chances this season.

The Bruins have lost several players through trades and free agency. Marchand was traded to the Florida Panthers at the deadline. Carlo was sent to the Toronto Maple Leafs, and Frederic joined the Edmonton Oilers in a three-team deal. Jake DeBrusk signed with Vancouver in free agency, while Charlie Coyle was traded to the Colorado Avalanche. Linus Ullmark was dealt to the Ottawa Senators in June.

On an episode of his podcast, Cherry questioned why the Bruins made so many changes. His son and podcast co-host, Tim Cherry, agreed. He said Don predicted months ago that Boston would struggle. Tim admitted he left that prediction out of an earlier episode.

"That’s a big turnover, for sure. I don’t understand it. Something funny going on in that whole organization. They’re going to miss the playoffs, that’s for sure," Don Cherry said. "I don’t know why they’re doing this. I just don’t understand it. They got rid of so many good players, and now look at them." (3:38)

Boston Bruins' playoff hopes look bleak

The Boston Bruins have lost 14 of their last 17 games. Their chances of making it to the playoffs are slim, with only 11 games left. They trail the Montreal Canadiens, who hold the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference, by six points.

The Bruins are currently on a six-game losing streak and recently lost to the San Jose Sharks, who are placed last in the league.

About the author

Abhilasha is an NHL writer at Sportskeeda. Holding a Bachelor of Business Administration degree, her interest in writing hockey was piqued after watching an NHL skills video on YouTube. The 2023 Stanley Cup Finale series between the Vegas Golden Knights and Florida Panthers was among the most iconic games she has seen and it left an impact on her.

Her reporting strengths include covering news stories and following stars like McDavid, Matthews and Alex Ovechkin, among others.

Abhilasha is a huge fan of the Edmonton Oilers and Colorado Avalanche because of their skilled forwards, while her favorite players include Wayne Gretzky, Auston Matthews, Connor McDavid, Sidney Crosby and Connor Bedard. For her, John Tortorella is the greatest coach ever.

Abhilasha has over 3 years of experience writing content for different products and websites, along with handling social media content for various brands. She values using credible sources when writing and likes to identify fake and false narratives.

Abhilasha’s hobbies include spiritual reading, staying updated on the latest makeup trends, fitness and exploring new destinations through travel.

Know More

Wayne Gretzky’s wife Janet responds to critics questioning his loyalty to Canada, Bobby Orr's support following 4 Nations drama

Edited by Neha