The Boston Bruins head into the month of November once again as one of the premier teams in the league. In fact, look at anybody’s power rankings, and you’ll find the Bruins at or near the top.
The Bruins finished October with only one regulation loss in 12 games. Their 9-1-2 record puts them in first place in the Atlantic Division and second place in the Eastern Conference.
David Pastrnak leads the way for Boston with an insane 24 points. Brad Marchand isn’t far behind with 21.
The Bruins need this strong start to carry over into November, as they embark on a stretch of 14 games in 28 games.
November 5 at Montreal
Although the Lightning and Maple Leafs continue to be the strongest competitors in the Atlantic, neither will ever replace the Canadiens as Boston’s chief rival.
Boston heads up to Montreal on November 5 to take on the Habs. They’ll renew the rivalry for the first time this season.
Last season, the Bruins and Canadiens met four times. The Bruins went 2-1-1 in these games, and they outscored Montreal 9-8.
Montreal should be a tougher matchup this year for the Bruins. The Canadiens are currently in third place in the division with a 7-4-2 record. Carey Price continues to lead the team with six of the seven victories.
The Bruins will need to stop an improved Montreal offense that features Jonathan Drouin and Brendan Gallagher. Each player has 12 points in 13 games.
The Canadiens, however, have a much more difficult challenge with Pastrnak and Marchand. For once, Boston, and not Montreal, is by the faster, more skilled team.
Boston-Montreal games never fail to live up to the hype. This game should be no exception.