Bruins’ AHL Development Pipeline Gets New Leadership – Hockey Writers – Boston Bruins

The Boston Bruins continued their organizational changes by naming Trent Whitfield as the 14th head coach in Providence Bruins history. The team also hired Ryan Ward as an assistant coach in the AHL. The move comes just weeks after former Providence coach Ryan Mougenel joined the Vancouver Canucks as an assistant coach.

Over the past few seasons, the Bruins have had a tough time developing some of their young players into what they see as NHL-ready contributors. It’s hard to pinpoint why so many prospects struggled to make it in Boston. Whether it’s unrealistic expectations, coaching, scheduling, player development or a combination of those factors, the Bruins haven’t turned promising prospects into regular NHLers.

Some of the players who came through Providence in recent seasons certainly looked like they had a future in Boston, however a few found opportunities elsewhere. Clear changes are needed to improve the organization’s development pipeline. The two moves are the latest in what has already been a busy offseason, which has included significant additions and departures throughout the Bruins’ front office and coaching staff.

Whitfield and Ward Hired to Support Development

Whitfield, who was the captain of the Providence Bruins from 2009 to 2013, has been with the Bruins for 10 seasons as a coach and understands what the organization wants in terms of development. It’s too early to say whether hiring from within was the right move or whether the team would benefit from bringing in a new voice, but the team seems happy with what Whitfield can offer as a leading man in the role.

“We are excited to announce Trent Whitfield as the head coach of the Providence Bruins,” said Bruins general manager Don Sweeney. “Over the past 10 seasons, Trent has established himself as a highly successful coach, and we are confident he is ready for this opportunity. His ability to create a winning culture while prioritizing player development will help prepare our players for success at the NHL level.”

Whitfield discussed how this is a role he has worked toward throughout his career and his goal is to continue to develop players while competing in the AHL.

“I feel honored and grateful to the Boston Bruins organization for giving me the opportunity to lead this team in Providence,” said Whitfield. “This is a position I’ve worked for my entire life, and I’m excited to kick off as we continue to compete at a high level while supporting the growth of our players.”

Sweeney also discussed the hiring of Ward, who joins the Bruins after four seasons as head coach of the USHL’s Youngstown Phantoms. Ward also has AHL and NHL experience, however, and has worked in various roles in multiple leagues. His previous roles include director of player personnel with the Tri-City Storm, video coach with the New York Islanders, Toronto Maple Leafs and Toronto Marlies, and assistant coach with the San Antonio Rampage.

“Adding Ryan Ward to our Providence staff is an important step for our organization,” said Sweeney. “Ryan joins the Trent staff as an accomplished coach with a proven track record of success and a strong commitment to player development. We are excited to welcome Ryan and his family to our familiar home in Providence.”

Change is clearly underway in Boston and Providence. Whether these moves are enough to improve the Bruins’ development pipeline remains to be seen, but the organization is taking steps to build a more consistent program for developing NHL talent.