When the Boston Bruins face the Montreal Canadiens on Sunday night, all eyes will be on goaltender Tuukka Rask. That’s not uncommon, as goalies often are the centers of attention. That said, this start is extra-important for Rask.
Rask needs an impressive showing against Montreal to make up for his start against the Canadiens earlier this season.
He had his worst start of the season in Montreal. Rask gave up five goals on 31 shots, and the Bruins lost in regulation. This was the start of a three-game losing streak for Rask.
Compare that start to Jaroslav Halak‘s recent start against Montreal. Halak stopped 36 of 37 shots as the Bruins dominated en route to an 8-1 victory.
Of course, people looked at Halak’s start and used it to fuel the annual Rask-can’t-handle-Montreal takes.
Look, we all know that Rask isn’t always his best against Montreal. In fact, Rask struggled significantly against the Canadiens before. There was a stretch where it seemed like Rask simply could not beat the Habs.
Although he has been better in his recent starts, Rask’s record versus Montreal is 11-17-4. Given the Bruins-Canadiens rivalry, this stands out.
It’s no surprise that some fans are nervous whenever Rask is in net against Montreal. And sometimes you have to wonder if the players and coaches feel the same way.
That’s why Rask’s next start against Montreal is so important.
First, he needs to show that he remains the go-to guy in big games. Sunday night is only a regular season game, but matchups with Montreal mean a lot more. As such, Rask needs to step and continue to prove all his doubters wrong.
Second, Boston has a chance to really bury Montreal right now. The Canadiens started the season well, but now they find themselves in sixth place in the Atlantic Division. They can’t afford to lose more games and fall further behind their division rivals.
With a win Sunday night, the Bruins can put another dent in Montreal’s season and playoff hopes. To do this, Boston needs a quality start from Tuukka Rask.
Looks for Rask to be at his best against Montreal. He’s typically more comfortable on home ice, so he should play well enough for the Bruins to win.