Boston Bruins Not Distracted Ahead Of NHL Trade Deadline
Boston Bruins Not Distracted Ahead Of NHL Trade Deadline
The 2016 NHL Trade Deadline is approaching quickly, and the Boston Bruins management is likely going to be working the phones up to the last possible second to try and help the team this year, and in the future. While Loui Eriksson‘s future has been the hot topic of discussion over the last few weeks, it’s important for the Bruins to remember that the season is still underway and every single point counts.
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The Boston Bruins will be hosting the Tampa Bay Lightning on February 28th, one day prior to the NHL trade deadline, in a battle for second place in the Atlantic Division. Both teams currently sit tied with 74 points in the Atlantic Division and the game is as important a four-point game as it gets as the playoffs rapidly approach. Head coach Claude Julien knows about the implications of the game, but it doesn’t seem to worry him at all. “We’re excited to play those types of games, and we need to be ready to play.”
Brett Connolly, a player who knows something about playing for both the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Boston Bruins chimed in his opinion on Sunday night’s game as well. “Obviously, with the standings so tight, we’re tied, it’s a big game–it’s going to be fun. Two good teams are going at it tonight.”
“Their offense is pretty deadly, so we’ve got to play some tight D and hopefully give up less shots than the last couple games.” Forward Matt Beleskey said. “If we keep playing our game, we’ll be in a good spot.”
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David Krejci said that the “main thing is to make sure (the Tampa Bay Lightning) stop behind the net, make the forwards stop, make sure they’re all in front of you, you see them.” He also highlighted the implications of the game. “There’s lots of points in play, so games like this we have to win if we want to stay in the top three.”
Loui Eriksson took part in the Bruins pre-game skate on Sunday morning, but it isn’t certain whether or not he’ll actually suit up for the game against the Lightning. With nobody certain of Loui Eriksson‘s future; be it as a member of the Boston Bruins or otherwise ahead of the trade deadline, the Bruins will have to simply play their game on the ice and let their general manager make the decisions in the office.
Claude Julien touched upon the trade deadline on Sunday morning as well. “Right now I think we have a pretty good focus on just playing the game, so it’s been good that way.” He also said “So, as far as a distraction, I’m not sure it is right now, and if it is, it’s not showing.”
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It’s encouraging to see the Bruins staying focused on their ultimate goal of the playoffs, even with the deadline holding so much importance for the team.
Follow Brandon Share-Cohen on Twitter @BShareCohen to discuss all things Bruins and sports