The Boston Bruins are close to naming their next team captain, with discussions nearing a conclusion after more than a year of consideration. The decision is expected soon, as the team prepares for its upcoming preseason schedule.

Two primary candidates have been under review: forward David Pastrnak and defenseman Charlie McAvoy. Both players are highly regarded leaders on the team, but recent deliberations appear to favor Pastrnak. Factors influencing this preference include Pastrnak’s durability and consistent presence on the ice. Notably, Pastrnak has completed all 82 regular-season games in four separate seasons, a level of reliability that McAvoy has not matched due to multiple injuries.

McAvoy, who currently wears an alternate captain’s “A” on his Bruins jersey, could potentially be promoted to captain, but Pastrnak’s value as a top scorer and proven leader seems to have tipped the scales slightly in his favor.

As the Bruins ramp up their preseason activities, they will play four games beginning in Brighton, culminating with a matchup against the Washington Capitals at the TD Garden on Causeway Street. Meanwhile, the team is also engaged in ongoing contract discussions with center Pavel Zacha. Zacha’s market value reportedly falls in the $10 million to $12 million range, but no agreement has been reached to finalize his role on the roster.

In addition to roster considerations, the Bruins continue to implement innovative training techniques. Goalkeeper coach Kelly incorporates the use of Senaptec Strobe glasses during warm-ups to help players enhance their peripheral vision and mental acuity. Additionally, meditation sessions featuring brainwave-monitoring headbands provide real-time feedback to improve player focus before games.

With the new season approaching, the Bruins aim to strengthen their leadership group and maintain competitive momentum through both strategic personnel moves and advanced preparation methods.