Don Sweeney Named Bruins General Manager

Don Sweeney was named Wednesday as the new general manager of the Boston Bruins.

Sweeney, who served as assistant general manager the past six seasons, will be introduced at a 1:30 p.m. press conference at TD Garden.

"I am fully aware of everyone's expectations to move the organization forward," Sweeney said in a statement released by the team. "The challenges ahead rests with the players, the coaches and the management group to work hard to make the necessary changes to bring the Bruins back to the forefront of contending for the Stanley Cup."

Boston's search for a GM began when Peter Chiarelli was fired on April 15 after the Bruins missed the Stanley Cup Playoffs for the first time since the 2006-07 season. The Bruins went 41-27-14 for 96 points, two behind the Pittsburgh Penguins for the second wild card in the Eastern Conference.

"Don Sweeney stood out amongst an incredibly talented group of candidates that we considered for this hire," CEO Charlie Jacobs said. "He carries a unique and impressive mix of playing experience, front office experience and business acumen. Don has complete understanding of what it means to be a Bruin and we have full confidence in him to steward the organization back to being Stanley Cup contenders year in and year out."

Sweeney played 16 seasons in the NHL, the first 15 with the Bruins. He retired after playing the 2003-04 season with the Dallas Stars, then returned to the Bruins in 2006 as director of player development. He was promoted to director of hockey operations in 2007 and assistant general manager in 2009.

He also served as general manager of their American Hockey League affiliate in Providence this past season.

"Don has excelled in every role he has been in with the Bruins organization and has a comprehensive understanding of every aspect of our hockey operations department," Bruins president Cam Neely said. "His commitment and drive to bring a championship caliber team to the Boston fans was evident every step of the way through this search process, and I am confident that his leadership of our hockey operations department will lead to success."

Sweeney had 52 goals, 273 points and was plus-112 in 1,115 regular-season games for the Bruins and Stars. He helped the Bruins to the Stanley Cup Final in 1990 and had nine goals and 19 points in 108 Stanley Cup Playoff games.