Last Skate of The Day, January 30, 2014

Jan 30, 2014; Boston, MA, USA; Montreal Canadiens right wing

(11) and left wing

(67) celebrate a goal against Boston Bruins goalie

(40) in the foreground during the first period at TD Banknorth Garden. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports

With the Bruins streak as hot as it has been and the trouble the Montreal Canadiens have been in of late, one would think the Boston Bruins would cruise to another solid win at the TD Garden. That was not the case tonight. The Canadiens came out firing early and often, chasing Tuukka Rask out of net half way through the second period. Chad Johnson had to pick up what remained of the Black and Gold’s defense, but it wasn’t enough. The Montreal Canadiens easily handed the Bruins their head 4-1.

Here is how the Bruins saw their surprise defeat at the hands of the oldest NHL rival. (Boston Bruins)

“Boston has a lot of talent, they’re always a good team, and I think knowing that made us better tonight,” said Canadiens’ captain Brian Gionta post game. Here is how the Montreal Canadiens saw the game. You can read it in English or en Francais. (Montreal Canadiens)

It’s safe to say that Claude Julien probably melted some paint of a helmet or two after this disappointment. The Bruins are still in first in the Atlantic, and the Habs have a long way to go if they expect to make the playoffs.

The team at NESN didn’t think much of the game either. They say the Bruins have a Canadiens problem, and they’re not wrong. The Bruins will put themselves back together as they have in the past, and finish out strong before the Olympic break. (NESN)

Tuukka Rask’s records  against the Montreal Canadiens is now 2-10-2. This is the fourth time he’s been pulled from a game this season, and the fault is equal parts Rask being rattled, and the defense not playing to their identity. (CSNNE)