First Round Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions

NHL First Round Playoff Predictions

Western Conference

#1 Blackhawks vs. #8 Wild (Blackhawks in 5)

#2 Ducks vs. #7 Red Wings (Ducks in 6)

#3 Canucks vs. #6 Sharks (Sharks in 7)

#4 Blues vs. #5 Kings (Kings in 7)

Eastern Conference

#1 Penguins vs. #8 Islanders (Penguins in 6)

#2 Canadiens vs. #7 Senators (Senators in 7)

#3 Capitals vs. #6 Rangers (Rangers in 6)

#4 Bruins vs. #5 Maple Leafs (Bruins in 5)

           

Bruins Expected Lineup vs. Tampa Bay

The Boston Bruins had full participation in today's morning skate with the exception of Nathan Horton who is still day-to-day, nursing a wrist injury. Claude Julien's group is pretty much fully healthy and should be ready to go come puck drop Thursday night. In this morning's practice the Bruins rushed the same lines from Sunday and Tuesday's games. The only difference is Claude had his playoff defensive pairings skating together.

The expected lineup is as follows:

Brad Marchand-Patrice Bergeron-Tyler Seguin

Milan Lucic-David Krejci-Rich Peverley

Chris Kelly-Carl Soderberg-Jaromir Jagr

Daniel Paille-Gregory Campell-Shawn Thornton

Zdeno Chara-Dennis Seidenberg

Dougie Hamilton-Johnny Boychuk

Andrew Ference-Adam McQuaid

Tuukka Rask/Anton Khudobin

Expected lineup vs. Philadelphia tonight; Additional game notes

Adam McQuaid participated in today's morning skate at the Wells Fargo Arena, the home of the Flyers.  The blue-liner was questionable as to whether or not he would play after sitting out Sunday's game against Florida. McQuaid was banged up Saturday when Matt Cooke of Pittsburgh targeted his lower body on what appeared to be a dirty hit. McQuaid is likely to play.

Assuming McQuaid gets the nod on the back end for Boston, Dougie Hamilton is a likely healthy scratch. Hamilton has played more games than any other Bruin this season, playing in 32 tilts during the NHL lockout. Post season success hinges on how effective the rookie can be. Rest will keep him sharp.

Anton Khudobin is expected in net. Tuukka Rask has played in two cosecutive.

Nathan Horton will sit this one out. He is nursing a wrist injury.

Claude Julien rolled the same lines from Sunday this morning. The projected lineup is as follows:

Marchand-Bergeron-Seguin
Lucic-Krejci-Peverley
Kelly-Soderberg-Jagr
Paille-Campell-Thornton

Chara-Boychuk
Bartkowski-Seidenberg
Ference-McQuaid

Khudobin/Rask

Bruins Hold Optional Skate; Set to Face Flyers

Gregory Campell centered Boston's merlot line in
 practice today.

The Bruins held an optional practice today at Ristuccia arena in Wilmington. Several of Boston’s top players were absent from the skate and understandably so. Coming off a pair weekend tilts and set to embark on a grueling stretch that features six games in nine days, the Black-and Gold will only benefit from some rest and relaxation. A break in the action will also provide the guys who are banged up with a chance to rejuvenate.

Winger Nathan Horton was one of the many missing today. He is nursing an upper body/wrist injury suffered in a fight with Jarome Iginla. Claude Julien labeled Horton as day-to-day.

Zdeno Chara sat it out as well. Chara looked to be a bit shaken up yesterday after a collision with Florida’s Jonathan Huberdeau. Boston’s captain could be seen visibly holding his right leg. He did return and finished out the game. It was a maintenance day for the big man.

Other notable Bruins that opted out from today’s session were Tyler Seguin, Patrice Bergeron, Brad Marchand, Chris Kelly, Dennis Seidenberg, Dougie Hamilton, and Matt Bartkowski.

Boston will be in Philadelphia Tuesday night for a showdown with the Flyers.

Bruins Cancel Morning Skate; Status of Game Tonight Unkown

Both the Boston Bruins and Pittsburgh Penguins have cancelled their morning skate in wake of the unfolding events taking place as we speak. Last night a shootout took place in Watertown as Police apprehended the suspects at the home they had been staying at. One of the suspects was killed in the gun fight. The other is currently on the loose, said to be armed and dangerous, and his where abouts are unknown. MIT police officer Sean Collier lost his life in the process.

Boston, Watertown, Waltham, Newton, Belmont, and Cambridge are all on high alert and said to be shutdown completely. People are urged to stay indoors.

The status of tonight's game at TD Garden is unknown at this time. In all likelyhood the game will postponed as hockey seems rather trivial at this point. 

Bruins hold practice; Lucic demoted again

Jaromir Jagr conducts the team's stretch prior to the close
of practice.

It was back to work for the Boston Bruins, as they held practice this morning at Ristuccia Arena in Wilmington. Each Bruin was accounted for. Claude Julien unveiled his newest rendition of lineup that has been in constant flux these past few weeks.

It was Milan Lucic, Kaspar Daugavins, and Jay Pandolfo sporting the green forward jerseys. The green signifying Boston's 5th line or likely healthy scratches. The three rotated in with their teammates during line rushes.

Gold jersey line: Brad Marchand-Patrice Bergeron-Tyler Seguin
White jersey line: Danny Paille-David Krejci- Nathan Horton
Grey jersey line: Carl Soderberg-Chris Kelly-Jaromir Jagr
Merlot jersey line: Greg Campell-Rich Peverley-Shawn Thornton

Playing without Milan Lucic Friday night is not out of the realm of possibility. It's actually quite likely. The bruiser has been in a slump for a significant amount of time now. Hopefully his recent free-fall in the lineup will serve as a wake up call as the postseason nears.

Game 43: Bruins vs. Sabres Preview

The Black-and-Gold return to action Wednesday night against the Buffalo Sabres. It will be the B’s first game back following the horrific Marathon bombing Monday afternoon. Their tilt against Ottawa was postponed and rescheduled in wake of the tragic events. Following practice Tuesday morning, the Bruins pledged to “play their hearts out” for a city in need of emotional relief.

Boston (26-11-4) will play host to Buffalo (18-19-6) in what will be the fifth and final meeting between the two clubs this year. The Bruins will be looking to win the season series. Each team has won two games a piece.

The B’s hope to snap a two game skid and will be getting some help in doing so. Patrice Bergeron, Boston’s heart and soul, is set for a return to action. Bergeron had sat out the prior six games with a mild concussion. His presence in the lineup will certainly help to solidify a group that has shown its fair share of inconsistencies in his absence. Brad Marchand will make his return as well. It is clear what his talents bring and mean to the team.

Buffalo comes into Boston having won three of their last five contests. A strong showing thus far in the month of April has the Sabres sitting only four points back of the eighth and final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Clinging to postseason hopes, the Sabres face a must win situation in this one.

Expect veteran leaders Thomas Vanek, Steve Ott, and Ryan Miller to have their guys ready go. The Sabres will be skating with great desperation and intensity. Buffalo has a “nothing to lose” attitude and is fully aware the fate of their season hinges on every play. 

As for the Bruins, finding their stride with the playoffs rapidly approaching, is at the forefront of the to do list. Jaromir Jagr, Gregory Campell, and Tyler Seguin have been three of Boston’s hottest players. Each has stepped up their production in significant fashion with Bergeron and Marchand being out. Anton Khudobin is likely to the get the start in goal for the B’s. Anton is 2-1 against the Sabres this season. His last time out, Khudobin blanked Buffalo 2-0 at the First Niagara Center.

Emerging as victors at TD Garden would be an immense lift for the thousands affected by the recent despicable acts. The city of Boston is more than deserving of another Stanley Cup. In speaking to the media following today’s morning skate, Claude Julien said, “it’s all the same goal, to win the Stanley Cup.” The Bruins are getting healthy at the right time and the addition of Carl Soderberg makes the B’s a very deep, multi-faceted, dangerously versatile group.

All great runs begin somewhere and what better night to get it all started than tonight against a hated divisional rival. Boston will clinch their highly elusive postseason birth with a win. Soderberg did practice with the team Wednesday. He will wear #34 and it’s not yet clear if the Swedish newcomer will start. Andrew Ference will get a scheduled night of rest and Wade Redden will make his Bruins debut.

According to today’s morning skate, the Boston lineup projects as follows:

Campell-Krejci-Jagr

Marchand-Bergeron-Seguin

Paille-Kelly-Horton

Lucic-Peverley-Thornton

Chara-Boychuk

Seidenberg-Hamilton

McQuaid-Redden

Khudobin/Rask

Bergeron set to Return

The Boston Bruins received some incredible news yesterday regarding Patrice Bergeron, arguably the team’s best player. Bergeron has been sidelined since an April 2^nd victory over Ottawa. He was awkwardly struck in the head by a Colin Greening elbow while bearing down on a back check. Patrice left the game and did not return. He was diagnosed with a “mild concussion.”

The team’s doctors medically cleared Bergeron for a return to game action. When the news broke just after the B’s morning skate, the entire Boston organization, fans, and Patrice himself, exhaled in unison. At only 27 years of age and already a victim to four concussions, things looked bleak for the 2012 Selke winner.

Miraculously, Bergeron only sat out a modest seven games this time around. Under the supervision of the astute Boston training staff, his road to recovery saw steady improvements each day. Bergeron spoke about the news, saying “I want to get back out there, I feel good, feel confident-we're taking time and there's a reason for that, so I'm not hesitant and feel good.”

The center man’s presence in the Boston lineup is vitally important to the success of the club. In his absence the Bruins struggled offensively, showing little chemistry as a group. Claude Julien was forced to shuffle his lines and nothing seemed to work. Bergeron brings stability, dependability, and an unrivaled hockey sense.

Ultimately the final ruling as to when Bergeron actually plays is up to the coaching and training staff.  Patrice is on record saying he’s “ready to go” and that he felt he could play. It still remains to be seen as to when he will actually be re-inserted. Though from the looks of things over on Causeway, Bergy will most likely skate in the B’s next game.

Patrice was slotted alongside Milan Lucic and Tyler Seguin in the AM skate. Carl Soderberg is scheduled to join Boston on Tuesday or Wednesday at the latest. He projects to slide in somewhere within the bottom nine forwards. As the playoffs near, things are beginning to shape up for the Black-and-Gold.

Game 42: Bruins vs. Senators Preview

Boston Bruins: 26-11-4 Ottawa Senators: 21-14-6

The Boston Bruins will play host to the Ottawa Senators Monday night at TD Garden. It will be the fifth and final time these two squads will meet this season. After beating the Senators in each of the previous four meetings, the B’s will be looking for the clean sweep of their divisional rival.

The Black-and-Gold have had a stranglehold on the Sens, winning 14 of their last 15 head to head matchups. This game comes at a perfect time for the Bruins, as they hope to avoid three straight losses. Boston has not dropped three consecutive games yet this season, largely due to their uncanny ability to bounce back when facing adverse situations.

Since losing to Boston, 3-2, back on April 2, Ottawa has been defeated in three of their last five contests. Once hot the heels of the Bruins, the Senators have since fallen behind. They now trail the B’s by 8 points in the standings and are fighting for their playoff lives.

Tyler Seguin has registered a goal in each of his last three games. Seguin scored his last time out against Ottawa and will look to continue his hot streak. Milan Lucic is another player to watch. The bruising winger had been under a lot of scrutiny for his lack of production. Lucic potted his sixth goal Saturday, snapping a nine game scoreless drought in a 4-2 loss at Carolina. Like Seguin, Lucic has had recent success against the Sens, picking up two assists in the same tilt. Jaromir Jagr (points in 4 straight games) and Gregory Campell (points in 3 of 4 games) are also hopeful to continue their recent successful runs.

Ottawa is a club that will be playing with great desperation. Their recent slide has put them in a difficult predicament and winning is really a must from here on out. Senator captain Daniel Alfredsson is always up for the big games and will certainly have has teammates ready to go. Craig Anderson will likely be in net for the Sens. He has yet to face Boston this season and is a ghastly 1-7 (4.20 GAA) in his last eight tries facing them.

The likelihood of either team’s offense playing a prominent role in this game is slim. Each of Boston’s four victories over Ottawa has been by one goal.  One game required overtime and another a shootout. The most goals posted in the season series have been three, done twice by Boston. Tuukka Rask is a logical choice to start in net for the B’s. He has shown little trouble in facing the Sens, beating them in each of his four career starts.

A victory for Boston will lock up a playoff spot and put them in a position to leapfrog the Canadiens pending the result of their game against the Flyers. Patrice Bergeron is close to making a return to the lineup and Swedish phenom Carl Soderberg will be joining the club come Tuesday. The pieces seem to falling into place for the B’s just as they approach postseason play. Picking up a win would serve as an important building block with only six games remaining after Monday.

Projected line combinations:

Paille-Krejci-Horton

Lucic-Campel-Jagr

Caron-Kelly-Seguin

Daugavins-Peverley-Thornton

Hamilton-Chara

Ference-Seidenberg

Bartkowski-Boychuk

Rask/Khudobin

Analyzing Carl Soderberg

Carl Soderberg

After a long drawn out, back and forth, controversial process, Carl Soderberg was finally awarded to the Boston Bruins Saturday evening. The Swede was denied exit by Sweden’s Hockey Federation because of a supposed contract breach. The Federation claimed he was under contract with them, in addition to Linkopings (Soderberg’s SEL club). The B’s had negotiated for his rights and then proceeded to sign him to a three year contract. The NHL was forced to intervene, ruling that Soderberg’s release from Linkopings voided any other contractual obligations, thus freeing the forward and allowing him to join the Bruins.

Player Profile:

The St. Louis Blues selected Soderberg in the 2004 NHL Entry Draft. Boston acquired his rights in a trade that sent goaltender Hannu Toivonen to the Blues back in 2007. The highly regarded 27-year old has spent his entire professional career (10 seasons) playing in Sweden.

Carl Soderberg’s offensive talent is well documented. The 6-foot-3, 207lb, winger recorded 31 goals and 29 assists (60 Pts) in 54 games this year playing for Linkopings HC of the Swedish Elite League.

For a bigger guy, Soderberg possesses a polished skating ability. He is agile on his feet and has the capability to explode past defenders at will. The power-forward shoots the puck with great accuracy and can score from a variety of different areas. Not only does he have a refined scoring touch around the net, his terrific vision and passing ability makes he him a duel threat in the attacking end.

His defensive skills are still continuing to improve as he steadily matures into a two-way player. In the mean time, Soderberg’s size, strength, speed, and sound technical abilities will be more than sufficient in providing for the Bruins.

Expectations:

Don’t expect Carl Soderberg to be any sort of savior that leads the Bruins to a Stanley Cup title. Instead, view him as an important piece to the puzzle. Boston’s success still hinges on the health of Patrice Bergeron and the production from their current top forwards. He will join the B’s immediately upon arrival and should serve as an immense offensive upgrade no matter where he is slated in the lineup.

Adding another weapon to the mix just in time for the playoffs increases the Bruins chances for success, it does not guarantee them anything. It’s clear this guy can light the lamp, of course the rate at which he will be able to do so remains to be seen. Playing in a new league will take some adjustments. Soderberg needs to prove he can withstand the increased physical grind of NHL hockey.

He projects as a top six forward in the Boston lineup. He would benefit from playing alongside a guy like David Krejci. For now, Claude Julien will likely play the newcomer alongside a defensive minded player, such as Chis Kelly or Rich Peverley.  Once Soderberg arrives and practices with the team, everyone will have a better understanding as to where he will be placed.

What impresses me most about Carl Soderberg is his puck handling abilities. In watching several videos of Soderberg, it appears he is extremely strong on the puck and can dangle through traffic if need be. The manner in which he does so reminds me of the way Jaromir Jagr handles the biscuit. He drives the net similar to Milan Lucic, and has a quick release similar to that of Tyler Seguin. This kid looks promising.

Watch Soderbeg here: Soderberg's 2011-2012 Linkopings HC highlights
He is number 17 in blue and 17 in white.

Bruins upset by Carolina, 4-2

Gregory Campell and Nicolas Blanchard exchange
punches. (Gregg Forwerck/NHLI)

The Boston Bruins dropped their second straight game Saturday night, losing to the slumping Carolina Hurricanes, 4-2 in a violent affair. Boston got off to a promising start in a contest that ended in disappointment. The game was certainly there for the taking, but the B’s were ultimately snake bitten by a few notable mistakes. Carolina benefitted from outstanding goaltending and a determined, hard working sixty minutes. 

The Hurricanes snapped a 7-game losing streak and picked up their first victory since their March 30^th win over Winnipeg. In defeat, the Black-and-Gold once again failed to capitalize on another perfect chance to lock up playoff spot. The B’s would have assumed first in the Northeast Division on a night that saw Toronto annihilate Montreal. Instead Boston now sits at 26-11-4. 

The B's may have been defeated, but they went down swinging. 

Milan Lucic scored the game’s first goal. It was a vintage Lucic. The burly winger worked his way to the front of the Carolina net, carved out a nice spot, and redirected a Matt Bartkowski wrist shot by Justin Peters for his first tally in 26 games.

These clubs were at one another’s throats for much of the night. Following Lucic’s marker, tempers began to flare. Shawn Thornton and Kevin Westgarth hooked up in what was the first of three spirited bouts. Things seemed to be going smoothly. Looked as if the “big bad” Bruins style of hockey had returned. Zdeno Chara then locked up with Jay Harrison and beat him down after the two exchanged words in a scrum along the glass.

By way of the power play, Jeff Skinner ripped the game-tying goal past Tuukka Rask in the closing seconds of the first period. Immediately after, Gregory Campell and Nicolas Blanchard went toe-to-toe, exchanging several blows. Both teams would head for the intermission tied, 1-1.

Jiri Tlusty struck next for the Hurricanes, giving his team a 2-1 advantage. Just minutes later, Andrew Ference broke up a play in the neutral zone and chipped the puck ahead for Tyler Seguin. Seguin raced in behind the Canes defense, moved in alone on Justin Peters and snapped a bullet up and under the cross bar, knotting the game at two apiece. The game would remain deadlocked right through into the final frame.

Ex-Bruin Joe Corvo broke up a 2-2 score after notching Carolina’s second power play goal at 9:36 of the third period. The Canes would hold Boston in check for the remainder of this one. For good measures, Jiri Tlusty tapped home an empty netter, ending any comeback hopes the B’s may have had.

Despite losing to an inferior opponent, the positive takeaways out weight the negatives. Milan Lucic scoring in the fashion in which he did gives the Bruins and fans alike hope that he could round into form as the playoffs near. Jaromir, Jagr, Gregory Campell and Tyler Seguin played strong games. The trio accounted for the majority of the Bruin scoring bids. Jordan Caron pushed the envelope in his time on the ice, showing flashes of the brilliant player he projects to be. Showing some backbone in picking fights tonight, Boston reassured the NHL, fans, and outspoken critics that they are not a team that will be pushed around.

Sure, the B’s were only able to muster up two goals against a Carolina squad that had been getting lit up, but they would definitely have had more if it weren’t for the brilliant play of Justin Peters between the pipes for the Canes. The young tender turned away 28 of 30 shots faced, impressively withstanding sustained attacking pressure. Also, one cannot ignore the fact that it’s clear the Bruins are struggling to find a happy median with Brad Marchand and Patrice Bergeron out of the lineup.

Tuukka Rask stood tall for much of this one, only allowing a single even strength goal. The Bruins penalty kill surrendered two power play scores. The B’s killers looked out of sorts and were not their disciplined, NHL’s top ranked, selves. Boston had only allowed two PP goals once before this season. On the bright side Tuukka Rask showed his unflappable demeanor, making several huge saves.

Now, with three losses in five attempts, Boston will head back to the drawing board. Fortunately for the B’s, the Habs ended up losing as well. The division crown is still readily attainable. Highly regarded Swedish phenom, Carl Soderberg, was granted his release to the NHL Saturday afternoon. Help is on the way for the Bruins. The 27-year old forward should provide a much-needed boost to a team plagued by offensive shortcomings. Soderberg will provide Claude Julien with added balance and flexibility within the lineup.

More importantly, Patrice Bergeron practiced with his teammates in Carolina Saturday morning. Bergeron took part in some battling drills and showed no problematic symptoms. His return could come sooner than expected. If the 2012 Selke Award winner is able to rejoin his teammates next week, a nice run could be awaiting.

Game 41: Bruins vs. Hurricanes Game Preview

Boston Bruins: 26-10-4 vs. Carolina Hurricanes: 16-22-2

The Boston Bruins will be in Raleigh, North Carolina Saturday night for a showdown with the Carolina Hurricanes. The matchup will mark the third and final meeting between these clubs this year. The B’s will be in search of the season series sweep. Boston can clinch a playoff spot with a victory and regain the Northeast Division lead with a Montreal loss.

Claude Julien’s team will look to pick up their sixth win in their last eight attempts. As for the Hurricanes, not much has changed since the 6-2 beating the Black-and-Gold laid on them this past Monday night. The Canes have lost nine of their last ten games, including two additional losses since departing from Boston.

The main focus for the B’s will be rediscovering their offensive mojo. A team that scored early and often in beating the Canes earlier this week, followed up what was a promising effort with a disheartening shortcoming against the Islanders. Playing without leading scorers Patrice Bergeron and Brad Marchand, the B’s offense seemed to be out of sorts and marred by inconsistencies.

Facing a decimated Canes squad may once again prove to be exactly what the Bruins need in order to get things back on track. After falling 2-1 to Montreal on April 6, it was the Bruins bouncing back, hanging a six spot on Carolina. The B’s once again find themselves in a similar situation; only this time they will be looking to avenge a 2-1 loss to the Isles. Whether the B’s have the same success remains to be seen.

After a great deal of line shuffling and searching for the most advantageous way to fill the void left by Patrice Bergeron in the Bruins lineup, Claude Julien must now do the same in addressing Marchand’s absence. After a day off and a chance to reassess their assets, Boston will get another attempt at building chemistry. The Bruins have gotten a steady contribution from Gregory Campell and Rich Peverley recently. Both players have taken on significantly different roles and will provide immense assistance if they can keep up the success.

With the likes of Jaromir Jagr, David Krejci, Tyler Seguin, Milan Lucic, and Nathan Horton manning the Bruins front lines, emerging victorious Saturday should be of little issue. The Canes are one of the weaker defensive teams in the NHL and their lack of quality goaltending could help spring the top Bruin forwards in the right direction. Several of the B’s players admitted it has been difficult at times with out their top scorers, but no one around the NHL is feeling sorry. Boston needs to block out any extraneous deterrents and find what it takes from within.

The Hurricanes will be expected to trot out the same group from other night. The Staal brothers are always a threat, as is Jeff Skinner. Eric Staal, arguably Carolina’s best player, has not produced a single goal during their current 7 game losing skid. Look for the trio to receive a heavy dosage of Zdeno Chara and Dennis Seidenberg.

Tuukka Rask will likely be in goal for the B’s. Carolina has not been able to solve him, dropping both previous contests. Last time out, Tuukka turned aside 40 shots and improved to 3-2 in career head-to-head matchups. Things don’t look bright for the Hurricanes.

Look for the Bruins to continue on in riding their hot goalies. No matter who man’s the Boston crease, goals will be difficult to come by for the Hurricanes. Carolina has been brutally outscored 59-24 in their last 15 tilts (1-13-1).  At the end of the day, stats don’t lie. The B’s are fifth in the league in points (56) and have outscored the opposition by a combined 27 goals this season. They are still an elite NHL team and should face little resistance in knocking of the Canes.

Bruins beaten by the Isles, 2-1

The Islander bench congratulates Josh Bailey after scoring
one of his two goals. (AP Photo/Charles Krupa)

The Boston Bruins, plagued by fatigue, fell to the New York Islanders Thursday night. The Isles defeated the B’s, 2-1. With the victory, New York improved to 5-0-1 in their last 6 games and avoids the dreaded season sweep. Boston lost its top spot in the Northeast and moved back into fourth place in the Eastern Conference. It was a night full of missed opportunities. The Black-and-Gold seemed to be a step late all evening long.

Josh Bailey was the difference in this hockey game. The 23-year old winger scored both Islander goals and it was all that they would need. His first tally came with just 21 seconds remaining in the first period. Boston turned the puck over, Bailey gobbled it up, and ripped one top shelf by Rask on the glove side. The Isles would take a 1-0 lead to the dressing room and into the second frame.

Boston opened up the scoring in the second. Tyler Seguin notched a power play goal at 3:41 of the period.  Jaromir Jagr and Greg Campell both picked up assists on the play. It was the B’s second PP goal in as many nights. The final scoring strike of the game came at 13:12 of the period. Josh Bailey was unopposed on a strong net drive and ended up beating Rask for the game winner. 

After playing 3 games in 4 nights, Boston’s finest seemed to fade away as the game progressed, as tired legs caught up to them. The Bruins started out like a house on fire, heavily outshooting the Isles in the opening twenty-minutes. New York tilted the ice in their favor at a steady clip following that. Boston was unable to convert on numerous scoring chances and it ultimately cost them two points.

Excuses aside, the game was there for the taking and Boston failed to capitalize. For some odd reason, Claude Julien decided to tinker with the lines once again and it proved costly. Playing without leading scorer Brad Marchand, the B’s offense looked invisible at times, especially in the third. In the games most crucial moments the Bruins seemed to fumble the puck away and misfire.

Lets not take anything away from the phenomenal blue collared effort the Islanders put forth in this one. New York knew what they were up against and showed up ready to roll. Chasing a playoff spot, the Isles put their skills to the test and left the Garden feeling excellent about their chances moving forward. They played a sound defensive game, stifling the Bruins top scorers from finishing off plays that should have been finished.  Evgeni Nabokov was a huge contributing factor in the success New York had. The veteran net minder turned away 30 of 31 shots.

For Boston, Tuukka Rask kept his club in the game for the full sixty. Rask made 34 saves and withstood several series of sustained Islander attacks in which several shots were fired toward him. The loose defensive play exhibited by the Bruins defensemen has become a highly unsettling trend, as they have looked beatable for weeks now. If it wasn’t for the elite goaltending the Bruins tenders have been turning in nightly now, things would look much worse.

The B’s will get a day off, rest, and regroup before traveling to Carolina Saturday night. In the mean time, many aspects of their game need to ironed out. Most importantly, Claude needs to find functional line pairings and stick to them. This Bruins team may be winners of 5 of their last 7, but that is largely due to the spectacular goaltending they have gotten. With Marchand and Bergeron out with concussions until further notice, the B’s must to dig deep and believe in one another.

By no means should the Bruins push the panic button. The Islanders are formidable opponents who were hungry and desperate for a win. Obviously the lack of production is a cause for concern, but it’s nothing that a veteran savvy group cannot work out. The continued success Tyler Seguin, Jaromir Jagr, and Gregory Campell are having is more than encouraging.

Game 40: Bruins vs. Islanders Preview

The Boston Bruins will host the New York Islanders Thursday night. This tilt comes less than 24 hours after the B’s were able to knock off New Jersey in a thrilling 5-4 victory. This meeting will mark the third and final game between these two clubs this season. The Bruins handily beat the Islanders 4-2 on January 25 and then again 4-1 on February 26.

Both Boston and New York have won 4 of their last 5 tilts and are two of the hottest teams in the Eastern Conference. The Black-and-Gold have battled their way back into first place in the Northeast and have regained the second overall spot in the Conference. The Isles on the other hand are putting together quite an impressive campaign themselves. They are currently situated in a tie for second place in the Atlantic and sixth in the Eastern Conference with the neighboring Rangers.

The Islanders are seeking their first playoff appearance since the 2006-2007 season and are poised to do so. Defeating the Bruins would be a huge step for a young squad looking to gauge exactly where they stand amongst the East’s juggernauts. But winning in Boston will be by no means easy. The B’s have been lights out on home ice, boasting a 14-2-2 record at the Garden. Already without Patrice Bergeron, the loss of leading scorer Brad Marchand will make the Isles chances significantly more favorable. 

For the Bruins, the likes of Rich Peverley, Greg Campell, Jaromir Jagr, and Chris Kelly will look to build on recent success. Peverley has tallied 4 points (1G, 3A) in his last two games, this coming after Claude Julien designated him for line four duties. Greg Campell has seen a jump in his production since being promoted up to line two. The 29-year-old pivot man has 2 goals and 2 assists in his last two. Jaromir Jagr has also chipped in 4 assists of his own this week. Since returning from injury, Chris Kelly has been by far one of Boston’s top defensive players and best face-off men. Kelly played an integral role in killing off 8 New Jersey penalties Wednesday night.

John Tavares and Matt Moulson, two of the NHL’s up and coming stars, will look to lead New York in this one. Tavares leads the Isles with 24 goals and is among the league leaders in scoring. Moulson, his line mate, has amounted 26 assists on the year and has shown great chemistry playing alongside the New York center man. Moulson has proven to be a thorn in the B’s side of the course of his career, averaging a point per game in the 14 games he has opposed them.

Adam Mcquaid is expected back for this showdown and should help sure up a Bruins defensive corps that has looked shaky lately. In allowing 2 third period goals against the Devils and Canes, the B’s d-men have shown signs of fatigue, after engaging in numerous back and forth contests. Mcquaid has not played since March 19. He will surely add some pep to the Boston skating game and bring some added physicality to a group that has been seemingly lacking in that department.

Boston will look to keep their streaking, red-hot offense going, as they will be in search of their third straight victory. Tuukka Rask will likely get that start. Rask has been dominant, beating New York twice this season and posting a 1.50 GAA against them. The B’s can clinch a playoff spot by securing at least one point tonight and getting help from a Winnipeg Jets loss.

Projected lines:

Milan Lucic-David Krejci-Nathan Horton


Daniel Paille-Gregory Campbell-Jaromir Jagr


Jay Pandolfo-Chris Kelly-Tyler Seguin

Jordan Caron-Rich Peverley-Shawn Thornton

Zdeno Chara-Dougie Hamilton


Adam McQuaid-Dennis Seidenberg


Andrew Ference-Johnny Boychuk

Tuukka Rask


Anton Khudobin

Bruins defeat the Devils in a wild affair, 5-4

Gregory Campell beat Martin Brodeur for the game's
opening goal. (Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

It was by no means easy on our hearts, but amidst a tumultuous battle, the Boston Bruins prevailed Wednesday night. The B’s defeated the New Jersey Devils 5-4 in a back and forth game. The Black-and-Gold improved to 26-9-4, regained first place in the Northeast, and moved up to second place in the Eastern Conference.

Right from the get go, Boston took it to New Jersey. Gregory Campell played a vitally important role in this one, scoring the game’s opening goal just 1:10 into the first period. Campell was able to follow up and stuff home a Jaromir Jagr rebound. The Bruins added two more first period goals. Just minutes after their initial marker, Danny Paille potted a shorthanded bid off a nice Rich Peverley feed. Already up 2-0, Campell was at again. He added a shorty of his own, helping his team take a 3-0 lead into the second period.

The B’s power play finally showed signs of life, as Zdeno Chara was able to tip a lose puck in front of the New Jersey cage by Brodeur. Up 4-0, it looked as if Boston would run away with it. Instead things got ugly. The Devils ripped off three unanswered scores, bringing themselves within one of the Bruins.

Tyler Seguin was the beneficiary of a gritty hustle play turned in by Paille. Paille outskated the Devils d-men and flipped the puck toward goal for Seguin who then deposited it for the score. New Jersey would add one final goal with their net vacant before ultimately losing. The loss makes it 8 straight defeats.

This was one of the more peculiar games to say at the least. A win is a win but never the less; Boston has to be thankful they were able to escape with two points. The Bruins were whistled for 8 penalties. The NHL’s top ranked killing unit proved why they are considered the best and then some. A group lead by Chris Kelly stood pat all evening, impressively erasing 4 penalties and two 5-on-3 Devil advantages in the opening frame. Adding two short-handed tallies is just an added bonus and a nice reward for a unit that has shined night in and night out.

Boston’s offense turned in its second consecutive noteworthy game, combining for 11 goals in the last two contests. This productivity comes just days after only mustering up 3 total goals in their prior two outings. Despite such progress, nothing can overshadow the alarming loss of Brad Marchand. Marchand was elbowed in the head after New Jersey defenseman Anton Volchenkov appeared to take a deliberate run at the Bruins winger. Marchand took a bad blow and was immediately taken down the tunnel. Volchenkov was ejected and should and will most likely be suspended.

Anton Khudobin improved to 9-3 on the year, turning aside 24 New Jersey shots. Dobby looked shaky at times but the Bruins defense was caught out of place on a few of the Devils scoring plays. The B’s blue liners and checking forwards appeared to be worn down at times. Boston continues to make a case for having the best goaltending tandem in the NHL, as they have single handedly been the difference in several games over the past few weeks.

It was not as routine as the Bruins would have liked, but with only two weeks left on the schedule, no one is grading the beauty in which points are acquired. Claude Julien’s new look lines clicked almost seamlessly yet again. Rich Peverley and Greg Campell seem to benefitting the most from the change of line mates. With rugged defenseman Adam Mcquaid likely making his return Thursday night, a slumping defensive corps will be infused with fresh legs. Look for the Bruins to tighten things up along the back end, especially after an unsettling end Wednesday night.

Quick Notes: 

*Milan Lucic has been quite frankly, brutally poor on the offensive end. His lack of scoring production is deserving of a demotion. Swapping him with Tyler Seguin would be a wise move.

*Boston has now won 5 of 6 games

Game 39: Bruins-Devils Preview

Boston Bruins: 25-9-4 vs. New Jersey Devils: 15-14-10

The Boston Bruins will be at the Prudential Center Wednesday to take on a reeling New Jersey Devils squad. This meeting will be the third and final contest between the two sides this season. The B’s are unbeaten against the Devils and will look to sweep the season series after winning the prior two games, 2-1 and 1-0 respectively.

The Bruins erupted for a season high five goals in a win over Carolina on Monday night. After winning four of their last five and six of ten, the B’s will look to build upon a promising offensive output as the postseason nears. New Jersey on the other hand has lost seven straight and eight of their last ten.

Playing without superstar talent Ilya Kovulchuk, the Devils have struggled to find an identity and the back of the net for that matter. Averaging only 1.7 goals amidst a season long slide; the Devils find themselves sitting at 14^th in the Eastern Conference and among the league’s worst offensive teams.

Despite the numerous demoralizing beatings that have all but ended New Jersey’s playoff hopes, Marty Brodeur has been their lone bright spot. A little over a week ago, Brodeur looked as sharp and nimble as ever, saving 25 of 26 Boston shots in a 1-0 defeat. The 21-year NHL veteran has been more than formidable since returning from injury, giving his guys a chance to win in nearly every start.

As for the Black-and-Gold, beating up on the Hurricanes isn’t exactly a measuring stick victory. The Devils possess a much greater defensive corps and a sure fire Hall-of-Fame net minder. Squaring off against a stouter opponent will help Claude Julien and his club more accurately gauge where they stand.

The last time out, the B’s struggled greatly in trying to crack a relentless New Jersey defense that seemed to attack the Bruins in layers. Jaromir Jagr was the lone Bruin to score on the Devils back in an April 4 triumph. The deciding goal deflected off of Jagr’s skate, thus proving the Boston offense more than stifled. New Jersey forced the B’s to the outside and cleared the attacking forwards out from the low slot with little resistance.

Since then, Claude Julien has altered his lineup with the hopes of summoning the winning ways that carried his club to a banner just two years ago. Tyler Seguin’s demotion to line three was one of many moves scattered throughout the Bruins forward lines. As odd as the B’s new combinations looked on paper, they worked wonders. Showing the ability to string strong performances together has to be at the forefront of things to accomplish.

Duplicating a similar effort from two nights ago could be the launching point for the Bruins. With only 9 games remaining on the schedule following this date with the Devils and a playoff spot already locked up, finding their comfort zone now could carry the B’s deep into Lord Stanley’s tournament.

Whether it is Tuukka Rask or Anton Khudobin in net come puck drop, New Jersey will face a monumental challenge either way. Both Bruins goalies have been lights out recently, allowing only 6 goals in their last 5 starts combined. Rask is sporting a 1.34 GAA in April and is making a legitimate push for Vezinna consideration. Anton Khudobin will likely be in goal, since Tuukka has played in three straight.

Look for the Bruins to make an early push again. The Devils have played Boston uncomfortably tight this season. The B’s defense must stand their ground and force play up ice for their forwards and allow them to go to work. Let’s not forget, New Jersey won the Eastern Conference last season and will be out to gain respect. Claude’s men cannot afford to let their guard down. This game is very winnable and Boston should emerge with two points. Keeping pace with the Canadiens is vital moving forward.

Projected Lines:

Lucic-Krejci-Horon           

Marchand-Campell-Jagr

Paille-Kelly-Seguin

Caron-Peverley-Thornton

Chara-Hamilton

Bartkowski-Seidenberg

Ference-Boychuk

Rask/Khudobin

Bruins blowout the Canes, 6-2

Jaromir Jagr and Brad Marchand celebrate after hooking up
for their second score of the night. (Jim Rogash/Getty Images)

The Boston Bruins exploited an overwhelmed Carolina Hurricanes team, defeating them, 6-2. An offensive break through powered the B’s to their fourth victory in five tries. The Black-and-Gold demonstrated newfound chemistry as Claude Julien’s lineup changes proved to be worthwhile. Tuukka Rask stood tall all evening and the Bruins wasted little time in asserting themselves as the top dog. Like any great team, Boston made it a point to dispose of their inferior opponent.

Playing without their offensive leader Patrice Bergeron, the B’s had been struggling to generate attacking zone pressure or any sort of significant scoring chances for that matter. Claude Julien took to the drawing board and crafted the perfect lineup card. After several games of flip-flopping and mismatching different combinations, Julien seems to have found a winning formula.  

Boston was able to successfully and effectively role all 4 lines in this game, receiving generous contributions from several key guys. Not only were the Bruins forwards stepping up, the blue-liners added some firepower of their own. The B’s had 6 players with multi point efforts and 11 different guys registering points. The 6 goals posted marked a season high.

For the first time in a great while, Boston jumped out to an early first period lead. A day after being demoted to line 4, a scuffling Rich Peverley responded in a big way. Peverley was able to follow his own miss, beating Jason Peters on a wrap around bid. The nifty move gave Pevs his fifth goal of the year. Just minutes later, it was Brad Marchand crashing the net, banging home a Gregory Campell rebound. Marchand struck again at the end of the first, making its 3-0.  This time it was Jaromir Jagr who was denied, but Marchand was again in the right spot at the right time, mucking in the dirty areas.

Carolina pulled goaltender Jason Peters following the B’s second goal. Dan Ellis came in and he neither could stop the bleeding. Boston continued its offensive onslaught getting two-second period markers from Andrew Ference and Jordan Caron.

Ference continued Boston’s determined effort in establishing an unwavering net front presence. He was able to redirect a Dennis Seidenberg blast by Dan Ellis after rotating to the low slot from his point position. Jordan Caron then capped off an impressive shift, picking up his first tally this year. Working hard to keep the puck in the Carolina end, the young winger smacked a seeing-eye goal through several bodies, giving the Bruins a 5-0 advantage. Nathan Horton added the sixth goal of the game in the third period on a Dougie Hamilton cross-slot feed.

Greg Campell seemed to bring invaluable energy, centering a line with Brad Marchand and Jaromir Jagr. The reinsertion of Jordan Caron and the return of Chris Kelly helped to balance out a Bruins offense that was in dire need of a make over. Dennis Seidenberg had a career game, recording 3 assists and 3 points, both highs for him. The two points from Andrew Ference rounded out a complete team performance.

Despite a lopsided final score, this tilt was by no means a cakewalk for Boston. Tuukka Rask was the deciding difference, making numerous noteworthy sprawling saves. Carolina controlled play off the opening draw and directed several shots toward Rask in rapid fashion. Fortunately for the Bruins, Rask was up to the task yet again. He was remarkably sharp for sixty minutes, turning aside 40 shots for the second time in three games. If it was not for Tuukka, this game could have taken a turn for the worse, as the Bruins defense was not up to par.

Carolina was able to post two third period goals, though the game was all but over by then. Boston improved to 25-9-4 and 8-0-1 in their nine home games. More importantly, the B’s proved they were able to make the necessary adjustments needed to rebound from a frustrating and heavily criticized loss in Montreal. Granted it was a decimated Hurricanes club the Bruins beat up on, but this sort of victory was a long time coming and could do wonders in sparking a promising stretch run.  

Game 38: Hurricanes-Bruins Preview

Boston Bruins: 24-9-4 Carolina Hurricanes: 16-19-2

The Boston Bruins will play host to the Carolina Hurricanes Monday night. Boston knocked of Carolina way back on January 28, 5-3. This tilt will mark the first of two games slated between the clubs this week.  The B’s will look to bounce back from a dejecting loss in Montreal against a slumping, and very beatable Canes squad. With season’s end in sight and their offense drastically underachieving, the Black-and-Gold have no choice but to play with an elevated sense of urgency.

Boston’s offense has only managed to collect 2 goals in their past 2 games. Several of the B’s forwards have been non-existent for long stretches, suffering from a lack of chemistry and poor execution. The loss of Patrice Bergeron, the addition of Jaromir Jagr, and the sheer inability to light the lamp has forced Claude Julien into shuffling his lines with the hopes of sparking life within the attacking zone.

Yesterday in practice Julien dropped winger Tyler Seguin in the lineup and rearranged several of his bottom nine forwards, leaving the Lucic-Krejci-Horton line in tact. The Bruins have been dominant on TD Garden ice, skating to 13-2-2 record thus far this season. Boston had their way with Carolina last time out, exploding for 5 scores, something their offense has not been able to consistently achieve in some time now.

Carolina has lost 4 of their last 5 and 11 of 12 games. Since losing goaltender Cam Ward to injury, the Canes have been on the slide and have fallen completely out of playoff contention. They have been outscored 46 to 18 over the course of putrid 1-10-1 stretch.

In facing a mediocre Canes team, the B’s find themselves in a perfect situation to bounce back and get their anemic offense on track. Carolina is statistically one of the worst defensive clubs in the NHL. In spite of the Hurricanes recent command over Boston, this date may be just what the Bruins need in order to regain the confidence that has slipped away.

Whether it is Tuukka Rask or Anton Khudobin in goal, things look bleak for Carolina. Both Boston tenders have played outstanding at home and with Alexander Semin likely sitting this contest out, goals may hard to come by.

Look for the B’s to convincingly beat up on one of the Eastern Conference’s worst. With the Bruins failing to respond in the most important of moments in recent weeks, winning tonight is essentially a must. Claude Julien has been racking his brain, trying to evoke emotion from his team that has been in a lull for some time now. Decimated by injury, Carolina still cannot be overlooked. It would be wise of Boston to put the foot down early on and rekindle that chemistry that has been eluding them. Chris Kelly will make his much longed for return from injury and should provide greater balance to a lineup that is in desperate need of it.

Projected Lines:

Lucic-Krejci-Horton

Marchand-Campell-Jagr

Paille-Kelly-Seguin

Caron-Peverley-Thornton

Chara-Hamilton

Bartkowski-Seidenberg

Ference-Boychuk

Rask

Bruins fall short, lose to Montreal 2-1

Montreal celebrates a 2-1 win and season series
victory over Boston. (The Canadian Press/Ryan Remiorz)

The Montreal Canadiens win the season series and once again knock off the Boston Bruins, winning 2-1. In victory, the Habs retain control of the Northeast Division and extend their lead in the standings to 3 points on the B’s. With the division up for grabs in the biggest game of the season, Boston lacked in multiple areas. The Black-and-Gold lost a game that at first glance could have really gone either way. But in actuality, the inability to execute cost them two points.

The B’s and Habs were even in nearly every category. The glaring difference in this one was turnovers. In the first period, a string of Bruins miscues in their own end ultimately resulted in the opening goal of the game. Montreal’s Alex Galchenyuk intercepted a Matt Bartkowski clearing attempt, forced play back in deep, and finally banked a shot off Tuukka Rask and in. The Habs, beneficiaries of a lucky bounce; Boston, haunted by a crucial mishap.

Just seconds into the second frame, Montreal struck again. This time it was via the power play. A Milan Lucic crosschecking penalty led to a Michael Ryder goal. Ryder was able to redirect a P.K. Subban wrist shot by Rask, making it 2-0. An always-reliable Bruins penalty kill fell victim to yet another bad break. Rask was unable to knock down a fluttering deflection that landed just out of his reach.

Boston then followed, registering its lone marker of the hockey game. Daniel Paille won a face-off back to Johnny Boychuk, who then had his shot ricochet back off Paille and by Carey price.  It was all the B’s offense could muster up. It was an offensive display that proved to be a step to slow and a second to late all evening long. The Bruins had their chances though. On a couple of occasions, Boston failed to score easy goals, missing the net completely on shots from close range areas.

The Bruins closed out a discouraging effort, failing to register a power play shot during a 6 on 4 advantage in the game’s final minute. The little emotion Boston exhibited, coupled with a diminished sense of urgency is nothing but disappointing. Granted this contest could have very well of been 0-0 and heading for overtime, the B’s did very little to help their cause. Call it unlucky, but Boston was outplayed and deservingly beaten.

In a game with few bright spots, Tuukka Rask played strong. Rask stopped 27 of 29 Canadien shots. Rask fell to 2-8-2 in his career against Montreal in defeat. He was active early and often, denying several Montreal scoring bids. Carey Price matched him. The habs goaltender turned away 26 of 27, proving invaluable.

Claude Julien and his men are more than aware that improvements and changes need to made and implemented quickly. Julien juggled his line combinations in each period, hoping to spark some energy. That spark never came. The Bruins are hopeful Chris Kelly will make a return to the team next week. The B’s are struggling to find a way to incorporate Jaromir Jagr. A Kelly return would bring added versatility to the front lines and possibly render a solution to the recent offensive imbalance.

*Bruins fall to 24-9-5. 2nd in the Northeast, 4th in the Eastern Conference

*Next game: Monday vs. Carolina Hurricanes