TBT: Esposito Sets Two Records and Boston Bruins Shutout Red Wings
April 2, 1969, Boston Bruins legend, Phil Esposito, made history by setting two Bruins records. In the playoff game against the Toronto Maple Leafs, Esposito achieved the highest goals and points ever (within a playoff game).
In the 10-0 shutout, Esposito notched four goals and two assists, for a total of six points. This would be a great accomplishment in itself, but his contributions helped the team set a couple of records as well, most goals and most powerplay goals in a playoff game. With ten total goals and six powerplay goals (three coming from Esposito), the Bruins secured the two team records.
This game was one to remember, not only for the records, but the commotion caused by fans. They were so outraged when Pat Quinn of Toronto elbowed Bobby Orr – earning him a five minute penalty, which would have been a lengthy suspension today – that fans shattered the penalty box’s glass trying to get their revenge on Quinn. Bruins’ fans sure do have passion!
Bonus TBT: To boost the Bruins positive energy for tonight’s game against the Detroit Red Wings, let’s look back to April 2, 1957 where the Bruins shutout the Red Wings 2-0 in the playoffs semifinal matchup. How about a repeat win tonight?