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.

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.

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.

Longtime Bs left winger and current captain Brad Marchand weighed in on the Edwards legacy.

This is how much money the top 6 players on the Boston Bruins are making.

As the Boston Bruins celebrate a century of historic ice hockey, it's only fitting to shine a light on six current players who not only command the highest salaries but have also solidified their places as franchise icons. From jaw-dropping saves to game-changing goals, these athletes exemplify why they are worth every penny to the city of Boston.

NHL hockey salaries tend to be more conservative than other professional sports leagues. The reason is because the NHL restricts teams from spending above a specified threshold on player salaries. The salary cap for each NHL team is $83.5mil.

While the NFL also operates under a salary cap system, its cap is generally higher, allowing for bigger contracts. Secondly, MLB, with no salary cap, sees massive contracts for its marquee players. A lot of that is due to the lucrative TV contracts and endorsements. The NBA, meanwhile, has fewer players on each team roster compared to the NHL, which means more salary to go around for its stars.

Additionally, global endorsements and larger TV deals in the NBA and MLB contribute to higher player salaries relative to the NHL. Don't let that mislead you though. Hockey players are still making a LOT of money. It's just that they're not making as much as the other professional sports leagues.

As the Boston Bruins mark 100 years of excellence, the contributions of these six top earners are evident in every game, every play, and every moment on the ice. The city of Boston doesn't just pay these athletes; they invest in them. And it shows! The Bruins have won the Stanley Cup six times (1929, 1939, 1941, 1970, 1972, and 2011). Here's to another century of iconic players and unforgettable moments!

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

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

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

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

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

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