Boston Bruins: Phoenix from the Ashes

After a thrashing courtesy of the Vancouver Canucks, the Bruins showed their mental toughness in a 2-1 overtime victory against the Calgary Flames.

So much for the “Real Bruins” that showed up on Saturday! In a game filled with back and forth, fast paced hockey, the Boston Bruins prevailed against the Calgary Flames in a Monday afternoon showcase. Here’s a breakdown of the match up period by period.

First Period

Well, isn’t this a stark contrast to the Vancouver game? The Bruins showed grit, toughness, and fight in the first period. David Pastrnak found the back of the net after a Calgary-won faceoff went sour in their own zone, bumping and parting through a sea of red that would rival Moses himself. Another standout was David Krejci, who’s creativity and toughness led to a plethora of Bruin scoring chances. The first period served as a great sign that the Bruins were over their nightmare in British Columbia, and after facing only four shots from the Flames, went into the intermission with heads held high.

Second Period

After finishing the first period on such a high note, the Bruins received a wake up call courtesy of first round pick Matthew Tkchauk. The B’s were caught napping during an exchange in their own zone, and the Flames made them pay. Danton Heinen, after a dismal first period, looked more refined after the intermission, and Adam McQuaid threw down with Garnet Hathaway, who made a business decision in displaying his prowess as a turtle in his spare time. Besides that, the period featured more intense hockey, with Jake DeBrusk shining bright in the Scotiabank Saddledome. Heading into the third, the game was neck and neck.

Third Period and Overtime

So, we trading Tuukka or what? This Finnish specimen showed yet again why he’s the starting goaltender through and through, stopping breakaway after breakaway from the Calgary attack. Numerous chances from the Bruins occurred, with David Pastrnak and David Krecji showing creativity, brilliance and menace in the attacking zone. However, even with numerous Johnny Gaudreau-led attacks the other way, the game carried over to bonus hockey. In the sudden death period, Rask stood on his head, stopping whatever came his way. And Brad Marchand?

Like butta’. Good night (or good afternoon?) from Calgary!

Next: Matt Grzelcyk is Underrated

The Road Ahead For The Boston Bruins

The Bruins continue their swing away from Causeway Street in a matchup against the Connor McDavid’s Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday night, before a break lasting until Saturday night to face the Toronto Maple Leafs. Look for the team to work on their special brand on skill, speed, and heart and be refined to make a run at the cup.