Joe Sacco Prepares for First Bruins-Rangers Rivalry Game as Coach

BOSTON — Joe Sacco, a lifelong Boston Bruins fan turned coach, is set to experience one of hockey’s most storied rivalries from a new perspective. The 55-year-old Medford, Massachusetts, native, who was named the Bruins’ interim coach on Nov. 19, will lead his team against the New York Rangers in a Saturday matinee at TD Garden.

“The Bruins and Rangers games were always — there was always something more special,” Sacco said. “It’s almost like there was more feel to it. Everybody always talks about the game at Madison Square Garden, with the shoe and all of that. I do remember that vividly.”

Sacco, who grew up attending games at the old Boston Garden, recalled the electric atmosphere of Original Six matchups. “The energy in the building was always fantastic,” he said. “I remember coming to the old Boston Garden as a kid and catching all of the Original Six games — the Rangers being one of (the opponents).”

Now, as coach, Sacco is calling on Bruins fans to recreate that energy. “I expect the same thing here today,” he said. “I expect good energy. I hope our players can feed off of that, as well.”

The Bruins and Rangers will face off at 3:50 p.m. ET, marking Sacco’s first home game against New York in his new role. Both teams are in transition, with the Bruins looking to maintain their competitive edge and the Rangers continuing their rebuild.

Sacco’s deep connection to the rivalry adds a personal layer to the matchup. Having watched the two teams battle for over six decades, he brings a unique perspective to the bench. “There was always something more special about these games,” he reiterated.

As the puck drops, Sacco and the Bruins will aim to harness the energy of their home crowd and secure a victory in this historic rivalry.