Tributes Pour In For Retiring Bruins Announcer Jack Edwards
It’s been storied ride for a man who grew up a Bruins fan. Having the opportunity to be the voice of the team for the last 2 decades has been a dream. And now, legendary Bruins announcer Jack Edwards is set to leave the booth and retire.
It’s not likely something he wanted to do, following this season, but it’s something he felt he should do. Edwards explained; “In collaboration with Bruins and NESN leadership, I recently decided that the time has come for me to finish my shift as the voice of the Boston Bruins. I am no longer able to attain the standards I set for myself, to honor the fans, the players, the Bruins organization and NESN with the best they all deserve.” For those of us who have been watching and listening to his broadcasts over the past year or so, there was a noticeable difference in his delivery.
Jack Edwards gets an ovation from the TD Garden crowd. pic.twitter.com/uVNdA4wj0v
— Conor Ryan (@ConorRyan_93) April 16, 2024
Why Bruins Announcer Jack Edwards Is Retiring
Regarding the slowing of his speech, Jack relayed, “I’m treating it like an in-season injury, something that’s going to get better.” He told WCVB’s Duke Castiglione, “I’ve had a speech problem coming on for the last year. There is nothing wrong with me physically. And they can’t figure it out.”
According to Boston.com, the Bruins’ broadcaster hadn’t addressed the obvious change in his speech until now. He told the news site that is due in part because his doctors aren’t sure of what’s exactly going on. Edwards says, “I did not have some kind of accident. I do not have cancer. I don’t have dementia. I haven’t had a stroke. All of that’s been confirmed by Mass. General neurology.” It’s baffling for Bruins announcer Jack Edwards as well as the doctors. It has to be incredibly frustrating for a person who needs their voice for their job. That’s why he’s leaving behind his dream job.
Couldn’t have had a better teammate by my side these past 2 decades. Congrats on the upcoming retirement, Jack! But first, one more playoff ride together. Giddyup, Partner! pic.twitter.com/glmkVMZ0bG
— Andy Brickley (@AndyBrickley) April 17, 2024
Where It Began
Edwards has been calling games for his beloved Bruins for NESN since 2005. He leaves behind a legacy of “bangers,” intense passion in play-by-play calls, and a team that appreciates all he’s meant to the team. Not to mention, he leaves behind his longtime partner in the booth, Andy Brickley who said he feels a sense of loss, but also feels like it’s a celebration of a tremendous career. I believe that’s how most of us feel. We will miss Jack’s staples, like ” Evacuate the building,” Hearts of lions,” “Not in this carnival,” This building is vibrating” and fan favorite, “Get up!”
Bruins announcer Jack Edwards style wasn’t for everyone, but it was for me. I appreciate his passion for his favorite team, although some felt his bias was an issue. I wish only the best for a man who’s felt like a friend in our living rooms, cheering on our team with us all these years. Thank you, Jack.
And who's had more fun than us?
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) April 16, 2024
Thank you, Jack 👏 #NHLBruins | @NESN pic.twitter.com/Gq2g0Lu3kb
Longtime Bs left winger and current captain Brad Marchand weighed in on the Edwards legacy.
Brad Marchand on Jack Edwards, "I'm gonna miss Jack. He's a staple to the team, to the broadcast. I think Bruins fans love him. Opposing fans don't. He's so animated and such a great guy. A lot of incredible calls over the years so definitely gonna miss him. Gotta thank him for..
— Shawn Hutcheon (@ShawnHutcheon) April 17, 2024
This Is How Much Money The Top 6 Players On The Boston Bruins Are Making
6. Linus Ullmark
Goalies are often the unsung heroes, but Ullmark’s contributions cannot be understated. His quick reflexes and calm demeanor under pressure have bailed the Bruins out on numerous occasions. In clutch situations, Boston can rest easy knowing Ullmark is guarding their net.
Contract: 4yrs at $20mil
Signing Bonus: $3mil
Average Salary: $5mil/year
Linus Ullmark is the 6th top paid player on the Boston Bruins. On 28 July 2021, Ullmark left the Sabres as a free agent and signed a four-year, $20 million contract to be the starting goaltender with the Boston Bruins.
5. Charlie Coyle
Versatility is Coyle’s middle name. Able to excel in various roles and situations, his adaptability makes him a coach’s dream. Whether it’s anchoring a critical penalty kill or providing offensive sparks, Coyle has shown time and time again why he’s an essential part of the Bruins’ core.
Contract: 6yrs at $31.5mil
Signing Bonus: $1mil
Average Salary: $5.25mil/year
Charlie Coyle joined the Bruins in 2019. It’s a perfect team for him because he grew up on the south shore in Weymouth, MA!
4. Brad Marchand
The embodiment of passion and grit, Marchand has long been a fan favorite. His relentless drive, combined with his knack for producing at crucial moments, makes him an indispensable asset. While he’s known for his fiery spirit, Marchand’s consistent performance and leadership qualities underscore his worth to the franchise.
Contract: 8 yrs at $49mil
Signing Bonus: $24mil
Average Salary: $6.125mil/year
Captain o captain! Brad Marchand was just named the new Bruins captain, and he’s been a Bruin since 2009!
3. Hampus Lindholm
Another defense stalwart, Lindholm, brings a balanced mix of physicality and technical prowess. His timely interventions, coupled with a keen sense of positioning, make him invaluable to the Bruins. Lindholm’s ability to contribute both offensively and defensively ensures that Boston’s investment in him is money well spent.
Contract: 8 Yrs at $52mil
Signing Bonus: $10mil
Average Salary: $6.5mil/year
Hampus Lindholm was gotten in a trade with the Anaheim Ducks. Cam Neely noted that they paid top dollar in the trade at the last minute to get him on the Bruins.
2. Charlie McAvoy
McAvoy is the epitome of defensive excellence. Combining strength with finesse, he’s proven himself as a cornerstone for the Bruins’ blue line. With McAvoy on the ice, opponents find it increasingly challenging to penetrate the Bruins’ defensive zone, and his presence has been pivotal in the team’s most significant victories.
Contract: 8 yrs at $76mil
Signing Bonus: $26.5mil
Average Salary: $9.5mil/year
Charlie McAvoy joined the Boston Bruins in 2017. He’s the 2nd highest player on the team.
1. David Pastrnak
Leading the pack is David Pastrnak, a dynamo on the ice. His unparalleled puck-handling skills, sharpshooter mentality, and uncanny ability to find the net make him a defensive nightmare for opponents. Pastrnak’s impact on the Bruins’ offense is palpable, often serving as the driving force behind crucial goals and game-winning plays. It’s no wonder he tops the earnings list; his value to the Bruins is undeniable.
Contract: 8yrs at $90mil
Signing Bonus: $26.5mil
Average Salary: $11.25mil/year
David Pastrnak joined the Bruins in 2014. He’s their highest paid player!
