The Quick Take : Bruins Comeback in a Shootout Victory Against the Panthers 3-2

 

Facing the Panthers again in less than 4 days, the Bruins came out with a more urgent and physical game. Although early in the season, this game had an almost playoff feel. The Bruins needed a strong outing and to stop a 2 game losing skid. Coyle opened the scoring on an odd angle shot that found its way over Knights shoulder and into the top corner. The 1st period was pretty evenly played with both teams at times getting good offensive zone time. The Bruins took their 1-0 lead into the 2nd. 

The period started strong for the Panthers. On a bad line change, Duclair broke through and scored just 47 seconds in.Ulmark made some nice saves early in the period. The Bruins were able to weather the storm and started to even out the play as the period went along.  The period was pretty even. Both teams had their chances but both goalies were solid. Of note, Cassidy made a line switch that saw Pasta slot back to the 2nd line and Smith move up. Pasta was struggling at times with puck possession and has all season . Will it last. Time will tell.

The 3rd started again with both teams getting chances. Haula put a puck behind Knight early in the 3rd but it rang off the post. They traded chances till the Panthers got a PP and on a well-executed pass, Barkoz put a labeled shot behind Ulmark and made it 2-1 at the 7:49 mark. But the Bruins didn't break. They began pushing the pace and were rewarded with their own PP and at the 13:35 mark, Brad placed a beautiful pass to McAvoy moving in from the point and tying the game. The period ended with a tie and into OT they went. 

In OT both teams had a few chances and Pasta had a breakaway but didn't have the time to execute and took a shot that Knight stopped. Nothing solved they moved to a shootout. Ulmark made the 1st save from the Panthers shooter but DeBrusk failed to score on his attempt for the Bruins. The next Panthers shooter was stopped again by Ulmark who played calmly and was well-positioned. Then Coyle took his turn and with a great move, deked out Knight and put the Bruins up. Tippett for the Panthers had to score and once again Ulmark stood his ground and clinched the victory with a save. Bruins win 3-2 in a shootout. 

Bruins PP : The Bruins had 3 powerplays. Once again they seemed out of sync and off. Forcing pucks and making poor decisions. But when it counted the most and on Brad's stick, he found McAvoy for the tying goal. On the 3rd pp, they were more active and quicker and it paid off. Grade B 

Bruins PK : The Bruins surrendered a goal on the Panthers only PP . Thier coverage was not good and with a team as lethal as the Panthers and high-end talent, that will kill you . Still a work in process. Grade F 

Players of the game for the Bruins : The two Bruin Players that stood out to me were Coyle and Ulmark. Coyle had one of his most consistent games and was involved in every aspect of the game. This is the type of play the Bruins need from him in order for the 2nd line to be successful.  Linus Ulmark was excellent between the pipes and made some truly great saves. He prevented the Panthers from extending the lead and shut them down completely in the shootout. He looks like whatever rust he had entering the season is gone and that bodes well. 

Last Thoughts : A huge victory that was really needed. This team still seems to be a bit of a work in progress with new players and new line combos. Plus a few players I think still haven't found their mojo yet like Pasta . I've been critical of Coyle and whether he can truly be a top 6 and fill that center spot but last night he performed at the level that will be needed to stay there. Hopefully, they can build off this win and begin to get some consistency to their game. Now it's another 4-day break till they face Detroit, who has given them fits in the past. 

Let's get it on and go Bruins! 

The Quick Take : So Far the Bruins Struggle for Consistency Leave Them 0-2 Against Florida and Canes

 

The quick takeaway from the other night's loss against the Canes was one of a lack of urgency and finding consistent offensive zone time. I'm not going to labor too much on this game but it's clear, top teams place emphasis on shutting down the top line, and until the rest of this team finds consistent scoring from the rest of this team, that will be an issue. The Canes used their speed and bottled up the middle of the ice very well. Plus the Bruins D failed time and time again to make smart decisions on zone exits. The Canes scored 3, 2 deflections, and one empty net. The Bruins didn't have their A-game but still had chances but failed numerous times to finish and Canes goalie Anderson shut the door on numerous decent quality chances. The Bruins did hold the advantage of shots as well, so it wasn't like they did not have opportunities but often struggled to create sustained pressure. However, a loss is a loss and they have only scored 1 goal over the last 2 games. 

Bruins PP : I'll be brief and honest. This PP looks off and is not working. They went 0 for 5 chances and failed to really generate any real top-end chances consistently. Pasta overpasses, McAvoy looks hesitant and I'm wondering if he is the right fit as the anchor on the blueline, and Hall upfront isn't working for me right now. The Loss of Krug 2 seasons ago as their anchor hurt but having Krejci eased that pain but now Krejci is gone. The replacement players plugged in are not as good, simple as that right now. Grade F 

Bruins PK : The Bruins kill was quite solid and the only Goal surrendered was a fluky one off a Bruins skate. They played with pace and urgency, pressuring the Canes. Perhaps, this type of attitude needs to be more common when they are 5 on 5. Grade B+ 

No Stars were given in this game .

Last Thoughts : Can the Bruins play better than they have shown in this two-game swing, I think so but there are a few troubling things emerging. The D at times seems to struggle in coverage and making clean passes. The forwards need to be better in the neutral zone and pursuit of the puck. Some within the Bruin camp have said they are concerned about Bergeron, that he looks a bit off. Perhaps, but from my perspective, that top line is still a lethal unit when in sync but it seems off and for me the weak link right now is Pasta. His play at times is baffling. Top-end talent but at times he tries to do too much and turns the puck over too much. Also how long do the bruins plug Coyle into the top 6. I just don't think he has the hockey IQ or sees the ice and reads the play well enough to be a top-six or center on the 2nd line. He is a north and south type player, great bottom six, and solid on the PK but I'm not seeing a top-six forward. Swayman was decent in the nets but he still looks at times he isn't tracking the puck well.  Bruins face the Panthers again tonight in Boston. So far this measuring test hasn't been favorable. It is not that they have been totally dominated at all but it has exposed some weak spots no question. 

Let's Go Bruins and get a win !! 

The Quick Take : Bruins Fail To Play Consistent and Fall to the Panthers 4-1

 

The quick take of last night's game was one of no consistency and a lack of urgency and smart play through the neutral zone. After a really well played 1st period, where the Bruins outchanced the Panthers, a mental error at 5:33 left in the period enabled the Panthers to score and go into the 1st period tied. Entering the 2nd period the Bruins began to lose puck battles and their passing was off, turnovers and very poor puck management allowed the Panthers to take control of the game. After an early goal at the 2;05 mark by Eetu's go-ahead goal, the Panthers pretty much controlled the period overall. Although the Bruins did get a few top-quality chances, Bobrovsky was stellar when called on and made some amazing saves. The 3rd saw the Bruins playing with a bit more urgency and it was pretty even but at the 12:40 point of the 3rd on a missed puck by McAvoy , Duclair was able to use his speed and in a great move scored on Ulmark , more or less sealing the deal. The Bruins did push back and had a few chances to narrow the lead but once again Bobrovsky was up to the task. After the Bruins pulled their goalie, the Panthers iced the cake with an empty-net goal. Done as dinner. Bruins lose 4-1 and the Panthers remain undefeated and prove they are the real deal. 

Bruins PP: The Bruins only had 2 chances and failed to score. The top unit still does not look as good as it should and I stand by my observation concerning McAvoy and even Hall being on the top unit. It could take some time for them to build the proper chemistry but I can see a hole created by Krejci that is not filled yet. Grade F 

Bruins PK: The Panthers only had one chance and the Bruins really did an excellent job of allowing the Panthers to stay on the outside and they didn't have any real solid chances. Grade A

Zero stars in this game but an honorable mention to Jake Debrusk who was skating well had some really decent looks and set up a few plays that failed to get results but he was a bright spot. 

Last Thoughts: It's hard to call in one game against a true rival in the division a measuring stick but last night the Panthers showed they are the real deal. The top line was held in check in general and they forced both Pasta and Brad to turn the puck over numerous times because they were trying to do too much. Why is Clifton in this line-up? He made numerous gaffs last night, 2 resulting in goals. He is at best a spare part, a 7th that's it. The 2nd line started well but really tailed off and after Studnicka made a few miscues, Cassidy benched him. McAvoy looked very ordinary last night and had a very mediocre game. Ulmark was alright but like I said in the past, Tuukka covered up many of the gaffs by this team on a regular basis. Not a great night but move on and now it's another undefeated team, Carolina tonight and they need to be better. 

I Have A Beef: This new feature once in a while will be something that ticks me off. Last night its was Coach Cassidy. He has shown over his tenure in Boston he has a tendency to give some players a pass and rely on some way more than he should. Last night he calls out Studnicka and Hall . Fine, Studs had a weak 2nd but benching him the whole 3rd made zero sense. It's early in the season and if he screws up here, it's a teachable moment and it's not costing you a position right now with plenty of hockey to play. The calling out Hall on the 1st goal on his positioning might have been valid but cmon, Coyle has been average at best most nights and I wonder how long this top 6 experiment will continue, I do not see him as a top 6 but Cassidy gets his "pick" on players and last year it was DeBrusk, even when he was playing him on his off-wing where he struggles. I think Cassidy is a good coach but that tendency he has really annoys me at times. That's my beef. 

Bruins Will Be tested Next Three games

The Bruins next 3 games starting tonight in Florida will be a true measuring stick to see where this team is . The Panthers are undefeated and playing very well . They have been pegged as cup favorites entering this season and so far have played like it . They have a quick strike offense and can make you pay if you making any glaring errors and lose coverage. The next game in this back to back is against the still undefeated Carolina Hurricanes. The Canes play a fast paced game , with a quick forecheck and they shoot the puck a lot . High end talent up front and solid D with good goaltending will make it tough for Boston in a back to back. 

Then to finish off this week , they will be at home for the 2nd meeting of the Panthers this week . So a truly tough week but one that will help show both strengths and weaknesses more than likely. If they can take at least 3 points , that would be a solid outing . Two wins would be excellent and 3 , well lets not get ahead of ourselves , although one can hope. 

If they are to be successful tonight  , puck management will be crucial. Not giving up too many turnovers , stopping the Panthers speed through the neutral zone , solid forecheck and sound defensive zone play will be needed. Plus Ulmark who is getting the start will need to be sharp because he will face some high-end shots. Staying out of the penalty box as well . Panthers have too much talent not to burn you . If we get a powerplay , make it count . The other thing I would like to see , the 2nd line click . Studnicka is in tonight and will be centering . So a time for him to show what he can do . 

But all the prep and talking means little , the game is played on the ice . So lets gets it one and go Bruins ! 

Lines:

Brad Marchand - Patrice Bergeron - David Pastrnak

Hall - Studnicka - Coyle

Jake DeBrusk - Erik Haula - Kuhlman

Trent Frederic - Nosek - Lazar/Steen

Defensive pairings:

Matt Grzelcyk - Charlie McAvoy

Mike Reilly - Brandon Carlo

Derek Forbort - Connor Clifton

Linus Ullmark gets the start

The Quick Take : Bruins End Sharks Undefeated Start of the Season with a 4-3 Win

 

The quick take from lasts nights game  the Bruins striked early and built on that goal to come out of the 1st period 3-1. Just 28 seconds into the game the top line created havoc with a dump in , retrieved the puck and from Pasta to Bergy to Brad and bam , its in the net . The line continues to build on its hot start. That followed by an unlikely goal scorer in Derek Forbort . With the top line on the ice again , Forbort took a pass from Brad and shot on net that eluded the Sharks goalie . The next strike was on the PP from Pasta with a one timer from Bergy . So just past the 16 minute mark it was 3-0 . The Sharks answered back just after on a shot on the short side on Ulmark that he probably would have liked back . The 2nd was another strong start for the Bruins and at 5:41 off a pass from Steen , Jake DeBrusk used his speed and broke past the Shark defender and shot a beauty top right hand corner , 4-1. The rest of the period was pretty even . Ulmark settled in and made some nice saves. The 3rd was pretty tight checking and looked like it was gong to be pretty uneventful but the Sharks scored 2 quick goals .The 1st at 13:09 from Hertl off a tip and then at 15:08 from Timo , another tip , and suddenly after a solid tight game from the Bruins , its 4-3. The Sharks did push but the Bruins settled down and Ulmark made a few key saves to preserve the win in a nail biter. 

Bruins PP : The Bruins PP looked decent and did get a big goal . they went 1 for 3 with Pastas goal and had a few other really good looks . The 2nd unit actually looked a bit better at times then the top unit and that is a good thing. Grade : B+

Bruins PK : The Bruins only took 2 penalties but were excellent in preventing the Sharks from getting too many top notch chances. Forbort especially was excellent at cleaning the front of the net and along the boards . The PK looks to be settling in and making itself very hard to score against . Grade A 

3 Stars of the Game : 1st Star Derek Forbort . The big D had a goal and assist , logged over 20 minutes and was stellar on the PK and shutdown minutes needed at the end. He was physical and showed his value 2nd Star David Pastrnak . Pasta was very active and was a menace on the ice He was trying to create chances and looked excellent driving the play and was fully engaged .3rd Star Brad Marchand . Once again I could not leave Bard off this list . He had a goal and an assist , was his usual self . He works as hard as any player on the ice and his work on the PP and PK created problems for the Sharks . 

Last Thoughts : This was almost a complete game form the Bruins except for the brief period of a slight letdown late in the 3rd. But they weathered the storm and held on. Taylor Hall continues to look better each game and looks to hopefully be building some chemistry with Coyle . Nosek and Haula both are showing that Sweeney was very smart in signing them both . They have fit in very well with the Bruins style of play. Ulmark was steady again and after allowing a weak goal , remained unfazed and settled in for a solid game. Now its off to Florida and Carolina for back to backs . The biggest test of the early season so far . So lets get it on and go Bruins !

Bruins came out strong and got on the board early with a  goal from the top line by Brad and added to it to make it 4-1 before allowing the Sharks two quick strikes to make it 4-3 in the 3rd. But they hold on to take it 4-3 and give the Sharks their first defeat of the new season. Solid game and effort by numerous Bruins . The next post will be The Quick Take.

 

Bruins Face Sharks in Matinee

Bruins coming off a victory against the Sabres will face a Sharks team that has started the season playing quite well. They beat the Leafs in thier previous outing in Toronto . So it should be a good tilt . Ulmark gets his 2nd start in nets. Keys will be the Bruins tightening up defensively, solid puck management through the neutral zone and the continued stellar play of the top line. Should be a good one . Go Bruins ! 

The Quick Take : Bruins weather the Storm With Solid Goaltending from Ulmark

 

The quick take from last night's game was one of great goaltending from Ulmark . The Sabres came out very hard right from the puck drop and played with pace. The Bruins seemed a bit slow to get going and if Ulmark had not been very solid between the pipes, last night's victory might not have happened. He made numerous key saves to allow the Bruins to stay in the game and use their talent to strike when chances presented themselves. Ulmark finished the night with 35 saves on 36 shots and a .972 save percentage. Pasta opened the scoring with a quick shot high on Anderson from a pass from Brad. Nosek extended the lead on a beautiful passing play between Hall and Coyle. Cassidy not happy with what he was seeing, dropped Smith back and moved Nosek up and it paid off. In the 2nd period, the Bruins played better and were not allowing the Sabres as easy entries. They made it 3-0 on a goal on the PP by Coyle from a wicked pass by Brad . The 3rd was pretty tight checked and the Sabres broke the shutout late at the 14.35 mark but the Bruins held on, netting an empty-net goal by Hall making the final 4-1 Bruins. 

Bruins PP : They only had two and the first one really didn't do much but the 2nd looked sharper and the pass by Brad was a thing of beauty to Coyle who finished. The puck movement on the 2nd attempt was better and the entries were clean. Grade : B

Bruins PK : Unlike the other night's struggle with positioning and getting to the points, the Bruins were more aggressive and better in terms of getting into lanes and clearing rebounds from saves, and forcing the Sabres into rushing plays. They were a perfect 4-0 allowing no goals. Plus once again Brad and Bergy show why they are one of the best to ever kill penalties in the NHL. Grade: A+ 

3 Stars of the Game : 1st Star Linus Ulmark . Ulmark had a great outing and looked confident and ready to play. He was active and aggressive when he needed to be and made huge stops when needed . Much improved play from the preseason and a very positive thing to see from a Bruin perspective. 2nd Star Charlie Coyle . Coyle had a bit of slow start to the game but found his mojo as the game went on. He was rewarded with a 3 point night, 1 goal, and 2 helpers. He will be vital in that 2nd line role if the Bruins are to compete for the division. 3rd Star Brad Marchand. Three games in and a star in all 3 . Brad was a force at times. Making key passes and delivering a few solid checks.He is the model of consistency .

Last Thoughts: The Bruins looked out of sync at the start and beyond the top line, had problems sustaining any real attack in the 1st . But Ulmark bailed them and as the game went along, they found some groove and made the Sabres pay when they made mistakes. However, Anton Blidh who was inserted into the lineup because of the Foligno injury was himself injured and had to leave this game. Plus it seems Smith has a nagging "something" and is doubtful against the Sharks when the Bruins play at home on Sunday . Sounds like Studnicka is getting a call-up and deservedly so. It's a matinee game and Ulmark gets the net again. So lets get it on and go Bruins. 

Bruins Win Last Night 4-1 Against the Sabres

Solid win last night. Especially anchored by the play of Ulmark in nets. Good to get back in the win column quickly. Another solid night by Brad and Coyle found his scoring touch. More of a breakdown in my next post. 

 

Bruins Look To Bounce Back After Loss Against the Sabres

 

After sloppy play cost the Bruins a loss against the Flyers, the Bs look to get back on track in Buffalo. They will be without the services of Foligno who suffered an upper-body injury and is day to day. So Blidh is sliding into the line-up tonight.Plus Cassidy announced Moore will be slotting in Clifton's spit on defense . Clifton had a pretty bad game against the Flyers and Moore did have a good preseason. Also notable will be the first regular-season start of Linus Ulmark, the former Sabres netminder. Ulmark looked a bit shaky in the preseason but he had not played since April, so hopefully more practice has helped him sharpen some of the issues he was having. 

The main key for the Bruins is to be smarter and tighter defensively. Giveaways and poor D-zone coverage cost them. Buffalo has been playing inspired hockey so far, short sample size but the Bruins better not sleep on them. They look like they are working hard and playing with a bit of a chip on their shoulders to prove they are better than many had predicted .

Puck drop at 8. Go Bruins! 

The Quick Take: Bruins Played a Sloppy Game With Weak Performances Galore in Loss to the Flyers

The quick take of last night's game was one of errors. The Bruins in general played a sloppy game with turnovers, weak neutral zone play, and D coverage that led to the Flyers taking advantage on the scoreboard. Credit to the Flyers for making the Bruins pay. A  few players had really rough nights. Forbort looked lost and slow, Clifton was indecisive and poor positionally and Reilly made numerous gaffs, the biggest one creating the go-ahead goal in the 3rd. Add that in with Swayman having his worst outing in net since his start in Boston and the result, 6-3 loss. The forwards were not much better, often forcing plays and really not generating enough top-notch scoring plays even with 40 shots. 

Bruins PP: The powerplay unit only had one chance last night and by in large was ineffective. Over passing and not taking a shot when it was there was an issue. they looked rusty and the time off once again between games did them no favors. I'm still not convinced Hall is the right fir for the top unit but will see . Too early to tell right now. Grade: F 

Bruins PK: Although 2 goals were allowed, one was an empty net with a minute to go. But the PK wasn't sharp when they allowed a goal on the Flyer's first outing on the PP. Coverage was blown and the points were given easy access to shooting lanes. Grade: F

3 Stars of the Game: 1st Star: Brad Marchand. Again Brad came to play and make some crazy plays. Rarely does he have an off night and was the best forward for the Bruins again. 2nd Star. Charlie McAvoy was skating, hitting, and driving the play. He had 2 assists on the night and wasn't a liability in his own zone as usual. 3rd Star Matt Grezlcyk showed what an excellent skater and D man he is getting the puck out of the zone. 

Last Thoughts: Cassidy was not pleased in the presser and rightfully so. The team was loose and sloppy. Swayman failed to make that big save, was leaky and didn't seem to be tracking the puck well. He is still a rookie and bad games are going to happen. His D did him no favors as well. The next start will be a key for him to show if he can put to bed a bad outing and start fresh.  So Bruins need to tighten up and fix the D that looked a bit lost. The long breaks between playing are never good. So off to Buffalo next and hopefully a better result. Go, Bruins! 

Bruins Lose to Flyers 6-3

 

Quick take away, Bruins were sloppy, and turnovers cost them big time. Add in that mix rookie goalie Jeremy Swayman had his worst outing as a Bruin and it's a recipe for a loss even though they had plenty of chances outshooting the Flyers overall. More of a breakdown later. 

Bruins vs the Flyers , Finally Another Bruins Game

Another break between games and the Bruins are out to visit the Flyers . This should be a good contest . The Flyers have been playing really quite physical out of gate so the Bruins will need to bring thier snarl . Swayman gets the start in nets again . Same roster as the home opener .Go Bruins. 

The Quick Take : Marchand , DeBrusk and Swayman All Looked Bruintastic

The Bruins quick take of last night's game.  The game was well managed by the Bruins from the puck drop and they were grossly outshooting the Stars at one point. However, getting into a few penalty problems allowed the Stars to gain some traction in the 2nd. But the PK for the Bruins was rock solid. Swayman made some timely saves . The PK units all forced the Stars to the outside mostly and attacked forcing the Stars to struggle with sustained pressure. Forbort and Carlo were excellent in boxing out and on the boards. PK gets an A+

The PP had some good looks on the few chances they had but it still looks like a work in process with Hall and Mcavoy on the top unit. The PP gets a B-. 

The 3 players of the game  1st Star: Brad Marchand .He looked engaged and was dominant at times. He scored a great penalty shot that was rewarded after a steal that caused the Stars player to take him out. Plus he tallied an empty net and was critical on the PK. He was physical and showed why he is the best-left winger in the NHL. 2nd Star : Jeremy Swayman. The young goalie showed both poise and confidence as a rookie in his 1st game of this season in an home opener no less. Although not tested too often in the 1st , he made timely saves and a few beauties. 3rd Star : Jake Debrusk . He had a solid game and continued his good play from the pre season into this one . He was using his speed and going to the net and was rewarded with a goal that was the game winner.Hopefully with his new line mates , this will be the more consistent Jake for this season. 

No much to complain about in this 1st game of the season . So out of 10 Bruin Roars  this one scores an 8 .Next up the Flyers in Philly . Go Bruins ! 

Bruins Take Home Opener 3-1 Over the Dallas Stars

Solid game from the Bruins. Bruin of the game: Brad Marchand with 2 goals . Swayman is solid in the nets. DeBrusk looking like himself. Great start to the 21/22 season. Go Bruins! 

 

Bruins Season Start and What Will This Season Bring : Thoughts on 21/22

Tonight the Bruins start the long quest for Lord Stanley once again against the Dallas Stars in their home opener. Cam Neely in a recent interview said expectations are high for this season and that high standard is echoed in the room with the players. They know they are a good team that can compete and win. The question is do they have enough to truly push for a cup.

Starting lineup for tonight should look like this :

Brad Marchand--Patrice Bergeron--David Pastrnak Taylor Hall--Charlie Coyle--Craig Smith        Jake DeBrusk--Erik Haula--Nick Foligno Trent Frederic--Tomas Nosek--Karson Kuhlman             Derek Forbort--Charlie McAvoy Mike Reilly--Brandon Carlo Matt Grzelcyk--Connor Clifton       Jeremy Swayman (starter) Linus Ulmark (back up)

The signings in the off-season of Foligno, Haula, and Nosek will add some real solid bottom 6 depth for the Bruins and hopefully give them that added offense missing the last 2 years. All 3 players are versatile and bring both energy and tenacity. 

With the 4-year deal Hall signed, the 2nd line has a legit elite winger that can drive offense on his own and should create havoc for the other teams. His presence should see the ability of the top line to see more open ice in terms of facing the other team's top defenders less especially if that 2nd line clicks at a good pace. 

The bottom line or energy line or pest line, whatever you want to call it has to be more consistent this year. Kuraly a constant on that line is gone and Wagner has been assigned to Providence as of right now, so it has a new look with Nosek as the center. Kuhlman and Fredric are at wing, so it has speed and some snarl. Over the last 2 seasons, the 4th line has struggled and has caused some real issues, especially in the playoffs. Hopefully with the addition of Nosek and Lazar ( out for 2 weeks) that will be the tonic to get this line effective again. 

Swayman and Ulmark will be the tandem this year. With Rask out with surgery and a UFA, the Bruins have left the door open for him to return later on but as of now, it's a new look net for the first time in over a decade. Swayman is getting the call for the opener based on his performance in the preseason over Ulmark who looks like he will need a bit more time to find his game again since he hasn't played since April. 

Keys for success : 

The continued domination of the top line. Really there is no indication for worry. Brad, Bergy, and Pasta all look primed for another excellent season. Even though Bergy is 36 he still looks ready to play at a  high level of play. So no real concern here at all. 

The 2nd line obviously has a gaping exit in stalwart David Krejci who returned to his homeland to play. So to start the season Charlie Coyle has been pegged to fill that role. Coyle had off-season knee surgery and that possibly hampered him last season. His production was down and his play was truly ineffective. Let's face the fact he cannot replace a world-class player like Krejci but he can be a very capable center on this line if he finds his game again. With Hall who can drive offense, Coyle doesn't have to be the main force but most be better than he was last year. The lack of depth scoring has hurt the Bruins not so much in the regular season but in the playoffs and watching this line during the season will dictate perhaps whether Sweeny will have to address the 2nd line center if Coyle doesn't pan out. 

The 3rd line last year was a work in progress at times. This year it's a completely new look with Haula, Foligno, and DeBrusk. the key for me here will be DeBrusk. Last year he looked lost, frustrated, and down. His play was grossly inconsistent and was hampered by injury and getting Covid. He has big game potential in that with his speed he can break a game open. That is the player we need to see. Plus Haula is coming off an injury season as well and looks to rebound. This line looked good in the pre-season and was developing good chemistry. Hopefully, it continues. 

The D core remained pretty much the same as it was in the playoffs. The resigned Reilly is a good skater, passer, and is excellent at getting pucks to the net from the point. McAvoy freshly signed to a long-term deal looks poised to continue his ascension to the elite of NHL D ( in my mind he is the best 2-way d man 5 on 5  in the league already) and has been a beast on the blueline the last 2 seasons. His time being mentored by Big Z cannot be understated. Carlo looks healthy and ready to go and will be key in shutdown and PK time. Matt Grzelcyk was looking real good in pre-season. Confident and shown I think a new level of maturity. Clifton looks to be the 6th man right now and he will hopefully be a bit more consistent this year. The one new D is Derek Forbort signed as a UFA, The former Jet has good size, is good in front of the net and on the boards. Plus he can eat up minutes and is solid on the PK. So I expect no slide in D play from this group which is needed for success.

Goaltending for me is the biggest question mark. Having an elite goalie like Tuukka for a decade, one entered the season without any worries really. Neither Swayman nor Ulmark can replace him but what they need to be is solid, consistent, and at times capable of stealing a game or two. Within the Bruins system of solid D play and commitment to that from all, they will have a chance to thrive and grow. But any top-tier success to push for a high division placement will depend on the play between the pipes. 

Coaching has been really good with Cassidy knowing how to get the most out of this team most of the time.  He has a tendency to be a bit stubborn at times with certain players but he has continued to adapt, make adjustments, and will need to again this year if the Bruins are to push for the ultimate prize.

Season Prediction: The Bruins in the Atlantic will face tough competition against Tampa, Florida, and Toronto. Plus I expect Ottawa to be no pushover. The Habs are who knows what and Detroit is still in rebuild and Buffalo looks like a tire fire but one never knows. So as I see it right now the Division shakes down like this: 1st Tampa 2nd Boston 3rd Florida 4th Toronto 5th Ottawa 6th Montreal 6th Detroit 7th Buffalo. But the placement between the Bruins, Leafs, and Panthers could all be swapped out. Point totals for the Bruins, a high of 110 and low of 99. 110 means 2nd and 99 could mean 3rd or a wildcard. 

The top point player will be Brad between 95-100. Top goal scorer Pasta with 40-52. The top D point man McAvoy 45-60. 

So enough talk as they say and let's get it going. Hope the Bruins roar loud this season. GO BRUINS !!!

                                                                                               

Swayman Gets the Call to Start in the Opening Game

Cassidy has called on rookie Jeremy Swayman to get the start against the Dallas Stars in Boston's home opener. Swayman posted great numbers in a short sample size last year and during the preseason starts looked solid and consistent, something that Ulmark struggled with a bit. Some thought Cassidy would call on Ulmark because of his contract and you don't want to undermine a goalie's confidence but Cassidy has stated all along, competition for spots is good and who is better will get the one up. Ulmark will get his spots and in his defense, he hasn't played much since April so he is I think still finding his timing and zone so to speak.  So Bruin fans need to take a breath and allow Sway to take it right now and give Ulmark some practice and he will be game-ready. 

 

Bruins Lock Up Key Cog On D and Future Core Leader in McAvoy

Huge day for the bruins locking up one of the future waves of new leaders and key players in Charlie McAvoy signing an 8-year deal at an annual hit of 9.5 million. It creates long-term stability on our blue line and gives the bruins a real key cog that will be a huge piece building off of to stay in the top part of the league. McAvoy's advanced stats are better than other elite D and as he will see more PP time this year, his offensive stats will rise as well. 

 

Bruins Place Moore and Wagner on Waivers

Bruins place Moore and Wagner on waivers today. Even though both have had decent camps, I think this move was going to happen for numerous reasons. One for cap space, either they get claimed (doubtful but never know) or pass waivers and are sent to the AHL in Providence. That's the hard part of being a depth guy, really your always a year or so of getting bumped. Just the slight fall off and a younger guy is ready to go. They both seem to be great guys and teammates. Moore has had a rough go with injuries and Wagner just looks a little slower than he did in his first year in Boston. Could they get claimed, possible but with the cap being pretty tight, I suspect they will end up in Providence. Either way, it gives the Bruins about 4 million in cap space. 

Preseason Ends With Loss to Caps : Quick Take Aways

 Bruins fell in another OT game 4-3 to the Caps. With both teams pretty much fielding their starting roster the game had a bit more regular-season feel to it. Bruins took a total of 6 penalties and that did at times affect their flow. Especially a player like Pasta who doesn't do any PK time. Overall they did a solid job only allowing 1 goal . The PP for the Bruins is looking good but failed to put any in the net. However they had good puck movement and did create solid chances, so goals will come. 

Quick takeaways. The 4th line still looks like a work in progress. They were pretty inconsistent most of the night and failed to create much pushback and offensive zone time. The return of Charlie Coyle was a huge boost and he delivered with a goal and an assist . The 2nd line of Coyle, Hall and Smith was no question the best line on the ice. Ulmark played the full game in the nets and although he played alright, still looks like he is fighting the puck and off his angles at times. But before Bruin fans panic, he hasn't played at all since April so some hiccups are going to happen as he finds his game again. 

Bruins Player of the Game: Charlie Coyle . He was very visible and played with tempo and pace. Was solid in the center dot and drove the play. All plusses for the big center returning from knee surgery. 

Now I cant wait for the season opener against the Dallas Stars. Go Bruins. 

Bruins Fall to Caps in OT 4-3

Another OT game and another loss. Only preseason and there were some positive things in this game but a few concerning things as well. Full thoughts tomorrow . 

 

The Gangs All on Board For Final Pre Season Game Against Caps

Roster for Tonight's Game : Marchand-Bergeron-Pastrnak Hall-Coyle-Smith DeBrusk-Haula-Foligno Frederic-Nosek-Lazar Forbort-McAvoy Reilly-Carlo Grzelcyk-Clifton Ullmark Grosenick

The Bruins will be icing pretty much their A team tonight. the biggest news is the first game in for Charlie Coyle. Much has been written about the departure of Krecji and the question of who will be the guy to slot in. Right now it's Coyle's spot to keep or lose. 

The bottom line, the last seasons Coyle has struggled with consistency and at times looked like a shadow of the player that helped get the Bruins to the final in 2019. Last season was very weak and he went almost 20 games with a goal. In 51 games he totaled just 16 points and was a -4. After the season ended with the Bruins losing to the Islanders in the playoffs, it was revealed Coyle needed knee surgery to address a nagging issue he was playing through for the last 2 seasons. Often watching him play, I wondered what was up with his skating because he looked slower and was not cutting to the net as often as he used to. Much depends on what the Bruins do with depth scoring and Coyle returning to form and showing he has it in him to be the guy to center Hall and Smith will go a long way to determine if Sweeny can stand pat or have to make a trade. 

Be interesting to see how Ulmark plays as well. He hasn't been that stellar in his previous outings. He has been fighting the puck at times and didn't look comfortable. He can say all the right things about not feeling the pressure of expectation now being with a good club or replacing Tuukka, one of the best goalies in the league over the last 10 years, but he is only human. I'll be watching him closely. The Bruins need to have him be solid.

So let's go and get the real season going after this last pre-season jaunt. 

Swayman Looking like the Man

 The Bruins iced a pretty much AHL roster team against the Flyers, who had mostly an NHL roster and performed quite well. Although penalties really hurt the Bruins in finding any game rhythm at times.

As far as forwards trying to leave an impression, once again Jack Studnicka has made another case for himself included in some capacity in the NHL roster. He was driving the net, trying to create offense, and was very clearly showing he can play at this level. He scored the only goal, by going to the net and batting in a rebound. The Bruins brass has a tough decision on their hands on what to do with Studs. 

Bottom line another game where the players trying to emerge to be seen really didn't make a huge case for themselves other than Studnicka. Also, the D core that is fighting to be the 6th man will be an interesting call. Clifton,Moore, and Zboril all played, and really not one truly elevated their play above the other. I would say Clifton has the edge based on his right shot and what he can bring nightly but I suspect it's going to be a bit fluid and will see both Zboril and Moore in the mix.

Bruin of the Game : Jeremy Swayman was excellent in this tilt. Making some stand-out saves and stopping a few breakaways. He faced 36 shots in total and was tracking pucks well and had solid positioning and rebound control. He has looked better than Ulmark in the preseason and for my money, deserves the start of the season game when the Bruins host the Dallas Stars. This young man's future looks bright from what I've seen so far. 

Bruins Fall to Flyers in OT 2-1

 

Quick Thoughts on the Loss to the Rangers

 At the end of the day, it's preseason. So here are a few quick takeaways.

Top Line: The "perfection" line looks like it's primed and ready to go with all 3 getting goals. But I will say , Pasta looks to be skating really well. 

Studnicka: Had a decent game and you can see real growth but it's a big ask to be thrown into a 2nd line center in the NHL. 

PP : With the top unit of Pasta, Brad,Bergy, Hall and McAvoy , this year should be fun to watch and see how well they click. Already look lethal and Hall just adds a great element 

PK : Still a work in progress. Wasnt really effective at times and looked a bit out of snyc. But preseason is for getting to where you need to be and will see how it unfolds by the time the real deal starts.

Goalie: Ulmark made his in Boston debut and played alright . Wasn't really tested too much because the Bruins had the majority of the play. Plus he did cough up the puck that cost the OT loss. Live and learn. 

Bottom Line: The 4th line is still a work in progress and a few players I think need to be more assertive like Frederik . Still spots open and only a few games left . Time to see who will emerge from the pack.

Player of the game and Bruin of the game: Brad Marchand. Made some slick plays and looks primed for a great season. Maybe its the year of the "rat" lol 

Bruins lose 4-3 in OT

Bruins fall 4-3 in OT to the Rangers on a give away from Ulmark to cause an easy tap in . Analysis tomorrow . 

Thoughts On the Bruins/Flyers Preseason Game

 The bruins had a solid victory against the Flyers and iced an almost full complement of regulars. As expected the top players looked good. Brad, Bergy, and Pasta all had solid outings. What more can one say about that line. Brad looked like he is ready to go and Pasta was, well Pasta. Bergeron is just the model of consistency. 

The 3rd line really impressed me. They played with pace , had some excellent looks, and contributed to the scoreboard as well with DeBrusk scoring. That line of DeBrusk-Haula and Foligno looks like they are developing some real chemistry. Plus so far it looks like DeBrusk is playing with confidence and determination. He is engaged and skating really well. That is a line I'll be keeping my eyes on going forward because I think they are just tapping into what they could be, a very dangerous line that gives the Bruins something they haven't had consistency in years, real depth scoring. 

The 4th line was effective and showed good energy. Caused some good forechecking and pressure on the Flyers D , which is what you want. That will be a very competitive line with the players the Bruins have added. Wagner who played will have to play well to earn a spot , as will Fredric and that I do think that will be a good thing because last year the 4th line really struggled with structure and identity. 

The 2nd line is definitely a work in progress. Studnicka centered between Hall and Smith . He doesn't look completely out of place but I didn't think he had a strong outing overall. He showed flashes of being able to be a true center but other times looked a bit lost. But he is learning and already has improved from last year. Coyle who is still being slowly brought back into the lineup after his knee surgery will have that spot but if Studnika can impress enough, he might get a look later. Hall looked really good and made some nice plays and it's great to see him on the top player unit, where he paid off with a nice setup for a goal from Brad. Smith looks like his affective self. Scoring a PP goal on a nice setup from Foligno. 

The D pairings where Forbort /McAvoy, Carlo/Grzelcyk, and Clifton/Zboril. These pairing looked solid with McAvoy logging over 22 mins. Not sure as of right now how the top 2 pairings will be because Rielly set this one out and will be a regular no question, so Cassidy will probably play with different combinations depending on who builds chemistry and the opponent. One exciting thing is to see McAvoy on the top PP. That will give that unit a new wrinkle and should really help Charlie's point totals. 

Swayman played the full game and had a solid outing. Wasn't overworked at only 20 shots but looked comfortable and assertive. 

So as a unit, the Bruins get an A grade
. Good game. 

The Player of the game and the Bruins player of the game are the same. It goes to Jake DeBrusk . 

Bruins Win Preseason Game 4-2 Against Flyers