Nov 11, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Bruins right wing Jarome Iginla (12) reacts with center David Krejci (46) and left wing Milan Lucic (17) after scoring an empty net goal during the third period against the Tampa Bay Lightning at TD Banknorth Garden. Mandatory Credit: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports
The Bruins came into Saturday’s matinee fresh off of a playoff type game against the St. Louis Blues in which they managed a point. No one would’ve blamed the B’s if they looked past the ‘Canes and forward to the Penguins on Monday night. This wasn’t the case as the Bruins came out ready to play, getting the first two scoring opportunities and half-dozen shots. The Bruins were working their transition game to perfection, turning defense into offense.
An injury occurred when a Shawn Thornton slapper went off of the foot of ‘Canes Defenseman- Andrej Sekera. Unfortunately for the B’s he didn’t leave for long as he tallied a Power Play goal, shortly after returning. The Bruins, one of the NHL’s top Penalty Kill teams (over 86%), let in what could be considered a soft goal from a team that had been 1 of their last 25 on the PP. In net for the Bruins was Chad Johnson, who at the time was partially screened but seems to allow at least one soft goal per game.
The Bruins were awarded a Double-minor penalty when Krejci was high-sticked by Manny Malhotra. Lucic took a wrist shot (in the middle of the zone) that Cam Ward couldn’t contain. Standing on the doorstep was Chara (4th), with an easy sweep in. 1-1 after one period of play. Bruins 14 shots to 6 for Carolina.
In the 2nd period the Bruins continued to take the play to the ‘Canes, completely out working them. The hard work paid off when “up and coming” Bruin Reilly Smith (4th) scored on a backhander. The only reason Carolina was still in the game at this point was due to their Goaltender. At the end of two solid periods, Bruins lead 2-1, Shots 26-10 Boston.
The Bruins sloppy on their fifth Power play, allowed a Short-handed goal by Patrick Dwyer. To say frustration had set in with fans would be an understatement. How a team can dominate for two periods, only lead by one goal and come out flat for the next period is beyond me.
The Bruins had their chances, outshooting Carolina 37 to 24 but Overtime was needed to decide this one. In O.T. the Bruins started off slowly until Iginla bull rushed his way between two defenders, drew Cam Ward away from the crease then dropped a pass back to Krejci for the game- winning roof shot. B’s win 3-2, shots- 38 to 24.
Next up for the Bruins (Monday) are the Sidney Crosby lead Penguins who lead the Metropolitan division with 30 points. The potential is there for another Playoff like game. Go B’s!