Marty Turco, a name synonymous with puck-handling prowess and a stellar collegiate career, had a brief but memorable stint with the Boston Bruins. Born on August 13, 1975, Turco's journey to Boston was an unexpected chapter in an 11-season NHL career.
Before donning the Bruins' spoked 'B', Turco carved out an impressive resume. He was drafted by the Dallas Stars in the fifth round of the 1994 NHL Draft. He then attended the University of Michigan, where he established himself as one of the most outstanding goaltenders in the program's history. As a four-year starter for the Wolverines, Turco achieved an NCAA record of 127 wins and led his team to four Frozen Fours, securing two National Championships.
Turco spent nine seasons with the Dallas Stars, becoming a cornerstone of their franchise. During his tenure, he showcased exceptional puck-handling skills, earning him the moniker "the smartest goalie in the NHL" from hockey commentator Don Cherry. In the 2002-2003 season, Turco took over the starting role and cemented himself as a reliable workhorse in net. Despite regular-season success, the Stars often struggled to meet expectations in the playoffs. After the Stars elected to rebuild in 2010, Turco's contract was not renewed. He then signed with the Chicago Blackhawks for a single season.
In December 2011, Turco signed a short-term contract with EC Red Bull Salzburg of the Austrian Erste Bank Eishockey Liga (EBEL). The contract included a clause that would allow him to return to the NHL if an opportunity arose. That opportunity came on March 5, 2012, when the Boston Bruins signed Turco to a one-year, $600,000 contract.
The Bruins' acquisition of Turco was prompted by an injury to their backup goaltender, Tuukka Rask, who was sidelined for four to six weeks with a lower abdominal strain. With Rask's absence, the Bruins needed a reliable netminder to support Tim Thomas. Turco cleared waivers on March 7, officially joining the Bruins.
However, due to the timing of his signing after the NHL trade deadline, Turco was ineligible to participate in the 2012 playoffs. Despite this restriction, his presence provided the Bruins with a veteran presence and a capable backup during the regular season. His Bruins tenure was brief but memorable.
Marty Turco's time in Boston marked the end of his NHL career. Today, Turco serves as an in-studio analyst at NHL Network.