The NHL has released the latest edition Reverse Retros for all the teams this season and for the Boston Bruins it’s a blast from the past. The “Pooh Bear” from the 1995 season is back, this time on a crisp white background not the stunning gold like on the third jerseys in ‘95. 1995 was also the year the league introduced the concept of having a special third jersey in addition to the typical home and away jerseys. The “Pooh Bear” jersey stayed around for eleven seasons before being retired in 2006. 

Players, like Matt Grzelcyk, have been waiting for this jersey to come back. “Either you love it or you hate it, I love it” Grzelcyk told reporters. 

The Bruins will wear these jerseys six times during this season only, all at home. 

Nov. 7 vs. St. Louis Blues

Nov. 19 vs. Chicago Blackhawks

Nov. 25 vs. Carolina Hurricanes

Nov. 29 vs. Tampa Bay Lightning

Dec. 3 vs. Colorado Avalanche

Dec. 31 vs. Buffalo Sabres

“Don’t Poke The Bear”.

The story behind the bear on the jersey was inspired by a print done by Guy Coheleach, which team president Harry Sinden had in his office. The bear held a double meaning; don’t fool with me, I can be friendly but also bite your head off. A bruin is a European brown bear, and they normally do not attack people on sight unless scared or provoked.

I personally like this jersey, although the mostly all white background can be tricky when it comes to stains. Having “Bruins” on the shoulders gives me a retro feel to it, and the integration of the gold at the bottom and on the sleeves is a nice touch. I wouldn’t say it’s the best reverse retro out of all the 32 teams (looking at you Coyotes and Islanders) but it’s not the worst (sorry Detroit and Chicago). You can preorder your own “Pooh-Bear” jersey now at the ProShop and they will be available November 15th.

Let me know what you think of the “Pooh Bear” jersey and what other retros you enjoy!

Until Next Time

~RJ