The Boston Bruins will be quick to rectify the OT loss to the Dallas Stars on Monday as they face off against the Montreal Canadiens.
With a shootout win fresh in the minds of Bruins fans, confidence will be high going into the second meeting of the season with the dreaded enemy. Boston may not have been at their best against the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre, but they showed resolve. I expect to see a more polished performance on home ice against the Habs on Wednesday evening.
Keys to the Game
The Bruins need to be better and controlling the space given to Montreal players in their own zone. Too often on Saturday the B’s were getting caught behind by Montreal’s wingers. The Galchenyuk line especially will need to be closed down effectively.
With the Bruins this season, if the top line is running smoothly the Bruins have every chance to win. It’s honestly as simple as that. The line consisting of Bergeron being flanked by Marchand and Pastrnak is the best line in the NHL. Period. Not only does it contain top-end talent but combines with a ridiculous work-ethic that other lines cannot match.
Continue the Streak
While the Bruins fell to the Stars on Monday they didn’t give up their consecutive points streak. Dating back to December 14th, the Bruins have points in 13 consecutive games. I don’t see that streak being snapped tonight.
A win tomorrow and the Bruins can really open the gap between themselves and the Maple Leafs. Currently the B’s are two points ahead with four games in hand. Continuing the points streak for at least those four games is pivotal. As we head into February, two matchups with the Leafs beckon, I’d like the Bruins to have a buffer going into those games.
Supporting Acts
The beauty of this current Bruins outfit is its’ depth. Whilst the key to winning the game is placed on the first line, behind them lies a vast array of talent. The rookies have been sublime and have bought into what being a Bruin is all about. McAvoy is the standout with Heinen being the greatest surprise.
You can feel that there is a togetherness within this setup. Bruce Cassidy has everyone vying for that same goal.
Make it 2-0 for the Season
Some victories just taste sweeter don’t they? Well a victory on home ice against the Montreal Canadiens is the cream of the crop for Bruins fans.
With both teams in polar opposite positions in the Atlantic. Another win over the old enemy, sticks another nail into the coffin of Montreal’s playoff hopes. That’s motivation enough on any night. The Bruins are lightyears ahead of the Canadiens this year and to emphasize that again tonight.
Next: Willie O'Ree: 60 years later
Phillip Danault Update
Phillip Danault was released from hospital and is being treated for concussion symptoms. Danault lay motionless on the ice after being struck by a loose shot from Zdeno Chara. He is listed as day-to-day.