From Wakefield to the NHL: John McLean’s Longstanding Support for Jordan Harris

Bruins’ Harris Returns to Game after Grueling Rehab, Supported by Longtime Mentor

Boston, MA – Jordan Harris is back on the ice for the Boston Bruins, concluding a challenging recovery period and reigniting his promising National Hockey League career. The defenseman’s journey back to gameplay has been characterized by patience, rigorous rehabilitation, and the unwavering support of both his family and a respected mentor.

A Familiar Face in Recovery

John McLean, a veteran of the hockey world hailing from Wakefield, Massachusetts, has closely followed Harris’s progression since his days at Kimball Union Academy. McLean, who himself played four seasons at Boston College from 1983 to 1987, even set aside traditional college rivalries when Harris donned the Northeastern University jersey. “I’m very happy that he is hear,” McLean remarked, underscoring the personal investment he has in Harris’s success.

Family Ties and a Debt Repaid

The connection to harris extends beyond the rink, beginning with a familial link. Head Coach Marco Sturm’s recovery from a knee injury in 2010 was significantly aided by Peter Harris, Jordan’s father, who served as a physical therapist at Massachusetts General Hospital.This personal history created an immediate bond when Sturm first met Jordan Harris.

Harris’s Commitment to Rehabilitation

Sturm praised harris’s dedication throughout his rehabilitation, noting his consistently positive attitude and unwavering work ethic. “He works really extremely hard,” the coach stated. “He’s been very professional, always in a good mood, smiling and working hard.” The focus now is on building game readiness thru increased repetitions and practice scenarios.

The Road Back: A Step-by-Step Process

The recovery process has been meticulously structured, according to McLean. It began with basic gliding exercises, gradually progressing to weight-shifting, strides, crossovers, and edge work – all executed with a careful eye towards pain management. Harris initially navigated the early stages of his recovery with assistance from a knee walker, before transitioning to a boot, sneakers, and skates. According to the American Academy of Sports Medicine, proper rehabilitation is crucial for athletes returning from injury, aiming to restore full function and prevent re-injury.

Stage of Recovery	Description
Initial Phase	Knee Walker for mobility
Intermediate Phase	Boot and Sneakers; focus on strength building
Advanced Phase	Skates; gliding,weight shifting,strides,and crossovers

Honesty and Trust: The McLean-Harris Relationship

Harris deeply values the honest and direct guidance he receives from McLean. “What I really appreciate from John is that he will be dead honest with you,” Harris explained.“He’s known me so long, so he knows how my stride is, how I play as a player, who I am as a person.” This long-standing relationship has fostered a level of trust and understanding crucial to Harris’s progress.

A Return to Normalcy with Family

Last week,Harris experienced a welcome return to normalcy by joining the Bruins on a two-game road trip. He was accompanied by his older brother, Elijah, a lifelong Bruins fan, creating a special moment for the siblings.

The Bruins currently hold a record of 30-13-7 as of January 24, 2026, according to NHL.com, and Harris’s return adds depth to their already competitive roster.

What challenges do athletes face when returning to play after a notable injury? And how crucial is the role of mentorship in an athlete’s recovery process?

Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don’t forget to share this story with fellow hockey fans!

How did John McLean’s mentorship help Jordan Harris reach the NHL?

From Wakefield to the NHL: John McLean’s Longstanding Support for Jordan Harris

The journey to the National Hockey League is rarely a solo effort. For Jordan Harris, a defenseman currently with the Montreal Canadiens, that support system has been powerfully anchored by John McLean, a long-time mentor and hockey figure from Wakefield, Quebec. This isn’t a story of a flashy agent-client relationship, but a deeply rooted mentorship that began in youth hockey and continues to influence Harris’s career today.

Early Days: Wakefield Hockey and a Budding Talent

Wakefield, a small town nestled in the Gatineau Hills, isn’t typically a hotbed for NHL prospects. However,it’s where Harris first developed his passion for the game,and where McLean first recognized his potential. McLean, a respected coach and administrator within the local minor hockey system, wasn’t just observing; he was actively involved in Harris’s development.

* Focus on Fundamentals: mclean’s coaching philosophy centered on mastering the basics – skating, puck handling, and positional play. this foundation proved crucial as Harris progressed through higher levels of competition.

* emphasis on Hockey IQ: Beyond physical skills, McLean instilled in Harris a strong understanding of the game, encouraging him to anticipate plays and make smart decisions with the puck.

* Local Roots: The tight-knit Wakefield hockey community provided a supportive habitat for Harris to grow, and McLean was instrumental in fostering that atmosphere.

This early mentorship wasn’t about pushing Harris towards the NHL; it was about nurturing a love for the game and building a solid skillset. It was about character development as much as hockey development.

Navigating the Junior Hockey Landscape

Harris’s talent quickly became apparent, leading him to the Carleton Place Canadians of the Central Canada Hockey League (CCHL). While playing junior ‘A’ hockey, McLean continued to be a sounding board and advisor. This period presented new challenges: increased competition, scouting attention, and the pressure of potential college scholarships.

McLean’s role shifted from on-ice coach to trusted confidant. He helped Harris navigate the complexities of the junior hockey world, offering guidance on everything from training regimens to dealing with scouts.He wasn’t actively seeking out opportunities for Harris, but rather helping Harris prepare himself to capitalize on them.

The Princeton Path and continued Guidance

Harris ultimately chose the NCAA route, accepting a scholarship to Princeton University. This decision,while perhaps unconventional for a player with NHL aspirations,aligned with Harris’s academic goals and McLean’s emphasis on a well-rounded education.

* Academic Priorities: McLean consistently reinforced the importance of academics, believing that a degree would provide Harris with options beyond hockey.

* Balancing Act: Playing NCAA hockey demands a unique balance between athletic and academic commitments. McLean helped Harris develop the discipline and time management skills necessary to succeed in both areas.

* Long-Distance Support: Even with Harris attending university in New Jersey, McLean remained a constant presence, offering advice and encouragement. Regular phone calls and visits helped maintain their connection.

During his time at Princeton, Harris excelled both on the ice and in the classroom, becoming a team captain and earning All-Ivy League honors.He signed an entry-level contract with the Montreal Canadiens in March 2022, after completing his collegiate career.

From Canadiens Prospect to NHL Regular

Harris made his NHL debut with the Canadiens in April 2022 and has steadily become a reliable defenseman for the team.He’s known for his skating ability, hockey sense, and willingness to block shots.

McLean’s influence hasn’t diminished with Harris’s NHL success. He continues to offer advice and support, providing a grounded perspective amidst the pressures of professional hockey.

* Staying Grounded: The NHL can be a whirlwind of media attention and public scrutiny. McLean helps harris stay focused on what matters – his game and his development.

* Long-Term Perspective: McLean encourages Harris to think beyond the immediate future, focusing on long-term growth and sustainability.

* Unwavering support: Perhaps the most valuable aspect of their relationship is the unwavering support McLean provides, regardless of Harris’s on-ice performance.

The Benefits of Long-Term Mentorship in Hockey

The story of John McLean and Jordan Harris highlights the profound benefits of long-term mentorship in hockey. It’s a relationship built on trust, respect, and a shared passion for the game.

* Holistic Development: McLean’s focus extended beyond hockey skills, encompassing academic pursuits and personal growth.

* Stability and Consistency: Having a consistent mentor throughout Harris’s career provided a sense of stability and continuity.

* Authentic Guidance: McLean’s advice wasn’t driven by self-interest, but by a genuine desire to see Harris succeed.

This type of mentorship is becoming increasingly recognized as a crucial component of player development, particularly in a sport where the path to the NHL is often fraught with challenges. It’s a testament to the power of community, the importance of strong relationships, and the lasting impact of a dedicated mentor.

Practical Tips for Aspiring Hockey Players and Mentors

For young players seeking mentorship,and for individuals interested in becoming mentors:

1. Be Proactive: Seek out mentors who share your values and have a proven track record of success.
2. Be Open to Feedback: Listen attentively to your mentor’s advice, even if it’s not what you want to hear.
3. Build Trust: Foster a relationship based on