The Boston Bruins have well and truly put that miserable road trip behind them. Edging past Carolina and destroying the Pittsburgh Penguins. Attention turns to divisional rivals and old foe, the Montreal Canadiens. Who are once again in self-destruct and won’t be making the playoffs.
Rested Bruins, Tired Habs
The Boston Bruins should be rested and healed from their bruising encounter with the Pittsburgh Penguins on Thursday. The Montreal Canadiens on the other hand played out a 6-3 win against the New York Islanders and should be feeling the effects.
First period will be crucial for the Bruins to get a couple of early goals before the Canadiens (if and when) find their legs.
David Krejci’s Form
Since Patrice Bergeron’s injury David Krejci has elevated his game to new heights. This isn’t to say that he was by any means below par before that, quite the opposite. Since the Bruin’s number one centre has been out, the shadow has lifted over Krejci who seems to be realising some of the limelight. A hattrick on Thursday and he will continue his sizzling chemistry with Rick Nash, a match seemingly made in heaven. Two legendary veterans assisting Jake DeBrusk in his development.
Next: David Krejci is player to watch
Krejci has six points in his last five games, four goals and two assists.
Six Points Behind Tampa
The Tampa Bay Lightning hold a six-point lead over the Atlantic Division. Luckily, the Boston Bruins have three games in hand on their Floridian rivals. A win tonight will aid the Bruins quest to take the Atlantic crown. At time of writing the Lightning were behind the Philadelphia Flyers at the end of the second period.
No Lineup Update
No word from the Bruins as to whether Matt Grzelcyk slots back onto the blue-line. Brian Gionta looks set to squeeze Danton Heinen out for a second straight game. Of course, Patrice Bergeron is still out with that fractured foot.
Tuukka Rask will get the start and look to put the Penguins game behind him. He was as much a spectator as the rest of those in the stands at TD Garden on Thursday night. Look for him to be active and dialled in from the off.
Interesting Start Time
5pm on a Saturday is a bit of an odd one. Not quite an early an early afternoon tilt and not the traditional 7pm start.