The Bruins dispatched the Maple Leafs tonight to a tune of 4-2. A contest in which Boston played a strong game of hockey, the particular kind of hockey that was lacking in their prior two defeats. We saw a more than respectable offensive output from their top players, forceful defensive efforts from their forwards,shut down physical play from the blue-liners, and Anton Khudobin was well, the icing on the cake. The Bruins flexed their muscle at the most opportune times in this one and that ultimately proved to be the difference.
Tyler Seguin tallied two goals and had one assist. Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci both scored one rebound goal apiece. But Brad Marchand really was the one who got things rolling. In the first period, Marchand’s determined work in the neutral zone forced a Leafs turnover that ultimately lead to Boston’s first marker. In the second, Marchand connected with Tyler Seguin on a beautiful cross ice feed that broke up a 1-1 tie. Then, later in the period the Bruins again stuffed one home as David Krejci backhanded an Andrew Ference snapper past Toronto goalie Ben Scrivens. Tyler Seguin closed out the Boston scoring with an empty netter at the end of regulation.
But it was Boston’s defensive play in this one that was most reassuring. Washington and Montreal both hung four spots on the Bruins, results unacceptable in Claude Julien’s eyes. The Bruins rolled four lines in an efficient manner all evening. No matter which combination was on the ice, a physical presence was present.The Bruins showed great resistance in the neutral zone preventing Toronto from generating a clean rush for much of the night. A relentless fore-check gave way to many Boston scoring chances. The Bruin defensemen were on par, limiting the Leafs attackers to a modest twenty-seven shots on goal. Boston controlled the dirty areas of the ice and won all the key puck battles. Not to mention a perfect penalty kill.
In the end, it was not the show put on by 19-37-63, nor was it the resiliency the Boston defense showcased. It was the play from net minder Anton Khudobin. Khudobin was sharp in goal. He turned away twenty-five of twenty-seven shots faced. The terrific performance turned in by Khudobin helped improve his record to 4-1 on the season. His quick reactions, in tune instincts,and uncanny ability to close down shootings angles aided him in stifling Toronto.
By no means will this victory be satisfying. In triumph, Boston did show some vulnerability by committing a few penalties that could have been avoided. A third period Leafs goal brought the game 3-2. As Boston’s two goal lead was narrowed, the Bruins and fans alike could not help but think about their recent third period shortcomings. To the Leafs demise, the Bruins did all things necessary to win. Not only did Boston cushion its one point lead in the division, they brought themselves within one point of the Eastern Conference leading Canadiens. Most importantly, the Bruins snapped a losing streak in workmen like fashion.
Final Thoughts:
If it weren’t for Tyler Seguin, Patrice Bergeron, and Brad Marchand the Bruins offense would be in a tough spot. They have accounted for 8 of Boston’s 13 goals this month. Their lethal scoring ability coupled with sheer speed gives opposing teams fits. Tyler Seguin is really just beginning to get it going. Brad Marchand is showing no signs of cooling off as he continues to rackup points. The savvy veteran presence of Patrice Bergeron anchors the line nicely.
Anton Khudobin continued his hot start. He is now 4-1. That feat has to be more than satisfying for Boston. He has performed very well in his back up role. Don’t be surprised if Boston rests Rask a bit more in the coming weeks. Khudobin is earning his time nicely and a rested Rask certainly will not hurt down the stretch.
In a crowded Northeast Division this win was big. Nothing will come easy and Boston utilized its toughness in taking a gritty two points.
No comments:
Post a Comment