If you've watched, listened to, or read about the first two playoff games between the Bruins and the Canadiens you know that the Bruins have struggled on special teams.
The Bruins have taken too many penalties during the games, many of which could have been easily avoided. Taking unnecessary penalties against a team who seems to be able to score at will against you on the power play really isn't a recipe for success. Of course the fact that the Bruins are a better 5 on 5 team and have a never say die attitude has almost cancelled out the poor penalty kills of late. Nevertheless, the Bruins need to stay out of the box and avoid giving PK Subban more time to tee it up than a PGA professional gets.
Believe it or not, heading to Montreal may benefit the Bruins' special teams. During the regular season they had less penalties and more power play opportunities when they were on the road. They were also more successful with killing penalties and scoring on power plays away from Boston. Like the Bruins, the Canadiens are a better special teams unit when they are on the road. Hopefully, this trend for both teams continues tonight giving the edge to the Bruins.
As do most fans, I hope the Bruins can just start the game with lead instead of playing catchup. During the regular season the Bruins have won 79% of the games they led after one period and 91% of the games they led after two. The Canadiens have lost 71% of the time they were trailing after one period and 91% of the time when trailing after two.
As do most fans, I hope the Bruins can just start the game with lead instead of playing catchup. During the regular season the Bruins have won 79% of the games they led after one period and 91% of the games they led after two. The Canadiens have lost 71% of the time they were trailing after one period and 91% of the time when trailing after two.
If you like what you've read here, share with your friends and follow @BOSsportschick on twitter.
RSS Feed
