Boston Bruins: Tuukka Rask has been impressive in the playoffs
Through the Boston Bruins‘ first nine playoff games, Tuukka Rask has been stellar. Although the Bruins lost on Saturday night, Rask continued to make big stops. The veteran netminder allowed more than three goals for the first time this postseason, but his save percentage rose. After a solid regular season, he has been even better in the playoffs. As the Bruins look to end their 10-year title drought, they will need Rask to continue his recent play.
So far this postseason, Rask has posted a .935 save percentage. He has also recorded a 1.94 goals against average through the first two rounds. Although the Islanders were able to tie the series on Sunday night, Rask made at least thirty saves for the fourth time in his last five starts.
Additionally, Rask has faced 291 shots and only allowed 19 goals. In Game 3, he was able to keep the Islanders at bay until Brad Marchand scored in overtime. In a hostile environment, the Bruins’ top goalie continued to play at a high level and gave Boston a chance to win. His play has also placed the former first-round pick among the league’s best in the playoffs.
The 34-year-old has the fourth-best save percentage among goalies this postseason. While he has not recorded a shutout, Rask has allowed two goals or fewer in six of his nine starts. In each game, he has made crucial stops, and the Bruins have been able to come up with timely goals. Earlier this postseason, he also managed to make history.
Rask has the fourth-best save percentage among goalies this postseason. While he has not recorded a shutout, Rask has allowed two goals in fewer in six of his nine starts. In each game, he has made timely stops, and the Bruins have had a talent for coming up with clutch goals. Earlier this postseason, he also managed to make history.
On May 21, Rask won his 54th career playoff game with the Bruins. With that win, he passed Garry Cheevers for most playoff wins by a goalie in franchise history. It was also one of the few records that Finish native did not hold. Since reaching that milestone, Rask has raised his game at the most important part of the season.
In Game 5, Boston will be looking to regain control of the series. After a frustrating Game 4 full of missed opportunities, they will need a better effort in front of the Garden faithful. While Saturday night was not Rask’s best performance, he received little help from his offense. However, throughout the playoffs, he has been able to elevate his game and been one of Boston’s most important pieces.