Back to the Boston Bruins Newsfeed

Jim Montgomery discusses alcohol struggles in NHL Awards acceptance speech

NASHVILLE — Jim Montgomery took to the stage at Bridgestone Arena to accept the Jack Adams Award given to the league’s coach of the year.

The humbled Bruins bench boss remains grateful for his second chance in the NHL — and life in general.

Montgomery’s struggles with alcoholism prompted his departure from the Dallas Stars after nearly a season and a half. He returned to the NHL coaching ranks after his stint in rehab, accepting an assistant coaching gig in St. Louis before landing in Boston last summer.

He shared his struggles with his friends, family, and other members of his support system who helped him along the way to sobriety.