The Boston Bruins had themselves a very entertaining game last night. Although it was just another preseason game, it’s hard not to be excited about them after performances like that. In their 4-2 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers, they dressed many players in their expected lineup for the regular season. They certainly came as advertised in the process, as the majority of their key players made the scoresheet. This was a nice change, as last game the young kids dominated.
After giving up an early goal on the power play to Joel Farabee, the Bruins quickly answered. While also on the power play, Taylor Hall put in an immense amount of effort and made a diving pass to Brad Marchand. From here, the 33-year-old did what he’s most famous for and put the puck in the net. Yet, Marchand would not have been able to do this without Hall’s hard work, so the 29-year-old winger deserves a lot of love.
With the score tied 1-1, the Bruins secured themselves another power play later on the first. To re-enter the offensive zone, Erik Haula made an absolutely gorgeous saucer pass to fellow newcomer Nick Foligno. This would allow the Bruins to ha a two-on-one, which led to Foligno setting Craig Smith up with a beautiful pass. From here, Smith scored and gave the B’s a 2-1 lead. It was great to see two of the Bruins’ top forward signings lead to the goal.
The Bruins weren’t done in the first, either. After Hall attempted to set up David Pastrnak in the slot for a one-timer, the latter fanned on his attempt. Yet, Brandon Carlo was in the perfect spot and the puck landed right on his stick. From here, the 24-year-old defenseman let off an absolute rocket, which flew right past Philadelphia goaltender Martin Jones.
Early on into the second period, the Bruins would score their fourth and final goal of the game. Haula fought hard into the corner, which led the puck to land on Jake DeBrusk’s stick. From here the 24-year-old winger would skate hard towards the net and jam the puck home. This was fantastic to see, as it officially continued DeBrusk’s hot streak.
The Bruins would allow one last goal to Farabee, who noticeably had a great game himself, but the B’s were able to hold on and win 4-2.
With all of this, let’s look at everyone’s stats who were on the scoresheet on the Bruins
Taylor Hall G: 0 A: 2
Erik Haula G: 0 A: 2
Brandon Carlo G: 1 A: 0
Jake DeBrusk G: 1 A: 0
Brad Marchand G: 1 A: 0
Craig Smith G: 1 A: 0
Nick Foligno G: 0 A: 1
David Pastrnak G: 0 A: 1
Again, although it was the preseason, it’s extremely nice to see that so many important players were factors last night. The Bruins have been heavily criticized for not having enough depth scoring for years now. If all of these players are able to contribute like this during the regular season, it will help eliminate this ongoing narrative. Furthermore, it would certainly help with the loss of David Krejci.
The Bruins and Flyers also participated in a shootout at the completion of the actual contest. In it, DeBrusk would score the winning goal. As previously stated, he’s been on fire all preseason, and nothing seems to be stopping him. This is exactly what the doctor ordered, especially when looking at how much he struggled last season.
Nonetheless, it was a fun game to watch. Now that it’s finally October, soon the Bruins will begin their regular season. Here’s to hoping all of these guys carry over this kind of offense during it and have themselves a very strong campaign.