Claude Julien honored by Boston sports legends in tribute

Big names from Boston to Los Angeles paid homage to Claude Julien in a video honoring his legacy

The Canadian-born Julien was further cemented as a Boston legend Thursday night. John Tlumacki/Boston Globe

March 25, 2016

1 minute to read

On Monday, March 7th, Claude Julien surpassed Art Ross (like the trophy!) for his three hundred and eighty-eighth win as head coach of the Boston Bruins. The win made Julien the winningest coach in franchise history.

Thursday night, the results against the Florida Panthers were less pretty and a bit controversial, but before puck drop, the Bruins honored their head coach for his milestone.

Boston sports titans were ready to send along their messages to the Bruins head coach, with Bill Belichick, David Ortiz, Doc Rivers and Terry Francona among the tribute crew.

Boston icons salute Claude Julien on becoming #NHLBruins all-time coaching wins leader:https://t.co/7lkxtn3v6v

— x – Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) March 24, 2016

All told, Julien was sent messages from five NHL coaches, two NBA head coaches, two MLB managers, an NFL head coach, and a mayor of a major U.S. city (hint: he’s a dynamite Adele impersonator), and a former MLB MVP. Claude certainly keeps impressive company.

Julien’s legacy was worthy of coaxing a handful of smiles from Bill Belichick, who wrapped up the video on a light note saying, “That’s a lot of wins, I wish I could steal a few from ya, but congratulations, and best wishes for continued success. You’re a great friend, you’re a great coach, and I’m proud to know you.”