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  • Bruins Hoping for the Best as Brad Marchand Deals with Injury

    Bruins Hoping for the Best as Brad Marchand Deals with Injury

    The Boston Bruins beat the Pittsburgh Penguins but the win came with a cost. Brad Marchand left the game with an upper body injury early in the game and the Bruins and fans are waiting to hear more.

    What Happened to Brad Marchand?

    Marchand was injured on his 3rd shift of the game. While playing the puck in the corner, P.O. Joseph of the Penguins threw a clean check and Marchand’s legs went awkwardly. Marchand hit the boards hard and stayed down in pain before being helped off.

    Joseph was not called for a penalty but later left the game with an upper body injury of his own. Marchand played only 2:18 before he left the game.

    Bruins Hopeful Marchand’s Injury isn’t Serious

    The Bruins didn’t give a full update on Marchand after the game but Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet said there’s reason to believe it’s not serious.

    “They’ll have a better idea tomorrow,” Friedman said. “The good news is nobody is concerned it’s a long-term thing. We’ll see where that goes, hopefully he’s okay.”

    Marchand has 21 goals and 26 assists in 61 games this season and is a big part of the Bruins lineup. His absence would be a major loss as they are fighting for an Eastern Conference wild card spot.

    Marchand’s Role and Trade Rumors

    Marchand’s injury comes at a bad time for the Bruins who are in a tight playoff race and the trade deadline. While Marchand isn’t being shopped, the Bruins are open to listening to offers on their captain.

    He’s a big part of the team and a big producer but his age (35) and contract status makes him a trade target for teams looking for veteran experience.

  • Bruins’ Matt Poitras Gives Surprising Update After Freak Play

    Bruins’ Matt Poitras Gives Surprising Update After Freak Play

    Boston Bruins forward Matt Poitras gave a thumbs up after a scary-looking injury during Thursday’s game against the New York Islanders. Poitras collided with an open bench door after a hit from Brock Nelson and practiced with the team on Friday.

    Here’s what you need to know about the incident and Poitras’ status moving forward.

    What Happened to Matt Poitras?

    During Thursday’s game against the Islanders, Poitras was involved in a freak play that sent the Bruins’ bench into panic mode. A hit from Islanders forward Brock Nelson sent Poitras tumbling towards the Islanders’ bench. Instead of falling safely inside, Poitras hit the open bench door and suffered a lower body injury. He was taken out of the game and did not return.

    Interim coach Joe Sacco had no update on Poitras after the game so fans were left wondering how bad the injury was. But Poitras was at practice on Friday and that’s good news.

    “It was just an unlucky play … Obviously it was a little scary,” Poitras said after practice. “It didn’t feel good last night but feels better today. I’m lucky it wasn’t worse than it was. Still a little sore but just a bruise.”

    Teammates Weigh In

    David Pastrnak, a teammate of Poitras, called the play “unfortunate” and noted that the bench door is supposed to be closed during such plays. “You don’t want to see that around the doors,” Pastrnak said. Despite the weirdness of the play, there doesn’t seem to be any ill will towards Nelson. Poitras himself downplayed any blame, saying it was just a matter of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.

    “I think it was just very unfortunate and unlucky. Can’t really blame anybody for that. It was just a fluke play,” Poitras said.

    Poitras’ Status Update

    Still a bit sore, Poitras was full go at practice today. He skated and did drills so I think he’ll be good to go Saturday vs the Penguins. We can’t afford to lose any bodies right now.

    “As expected I was a little sore today, but didn’t affect my practice,” Poitras said. “I feel good and looking forward to getting back out there.”

    Why Poitras Matters

    We’re on the outside looking in on the playoff race. We haven’t won since Feb 4 and need everyone to contribute. Poitras has been solid lately, 4 points and +3 in the last 7 games. Losing him even for a game would be a big blow to our chances of getting back in.

    FAQs About Matt Poitras’ Injury

    What happened to Matt Poitras during the Islanders game?

    Poitras got hurt after running into an open bench door after a hit from Brock Nelson. It happened late in the game and he didn’t return.

    Is Matt Poitras going to miss any games?

    Not likely. He practiced full today and said he’s good to go for Saturday’s game vs the Pens.

    How bad was the injury?

    It looked bad in the moment but Poitras called it just a bruise. He was sore today but practiced without limitations.

    What did Poitras say about the play?

    He called it an unlucky and fluke play and doesn’t blame anyone for it. Said these things happen and he’s just glad it wasn’t worse.

    Why is Poitras important right now?

    He’s been contributing offensively with 4 points and a +3 in the last 7 games. The team is struggling to win and fighting for a playoff spot so he’s gotta be in the lineup.

  • Bruins Recall Exciting Prospect, Announce Multiple Roster Moves

    Bruins Recall Exciting Prospect, Announce Multiple Roster Moves

    The Boston Bruins made some moves today, recalling forwards Georgii Merkulov and Jeffrey Viel, along with defenseman Ian Mitchell, from Providence. Corresponding moves sent down wingers Riley Tufte and Oliver Wahlstrom, as well as defenseman Michael Callahan. Here’s what it means for the team as they try to get in.

    The Moves at a Glance

    Who’s Coming Up?

    Georgii Merkulov

    • Position: Forward
    • Stats (AHL): 13 goals, 31 assists, 44 points in 47 games.
    • NHL Experience: 7 games, 1 assist.
    • Role: Merkulov brings offensive upside and could slot into a top-nine role with Trent Frederic sidelined.

    Ian Mitchell

    • Position: Defenseman
    • Stats (AHL): 4 goals, 23 assists, 27 points in 46 games.
    • NHL Experience: 13 games, 2 assists, +6 rating.
    • Role: Mitchell offers more puck-moving ability than Callahan, addressing a need on the blue line.

    Jeffrey Viel

    • Position: Forward
    • Stats (AHL): 26 points, 130 penalty minutes in 51 games.
    • Role: Viel adds physicality and grit, replacing Tufte’s presence in the lineup.

    Who’s Heading Down?

    Riley Tufte

    • Position: Forward
    • Stats (NHL): 5 games, 0 points, -3 rating.
    • Role: Tufte provided depth but lacked offensive impact.

    Oliver Wahlstrom

    • Position: Forward
    • Stats (NHL): Limited role, cleared waivers earlier today.
    • Role: Wahlstrom struggled to carve out a consistent role in the lineup.

    Michael Callahan

    • Position: Defenseman
    • Stats (NHL): 11 games, -2 rating, 13:08 average ice time.
    • Role: Callahan’s stay-at-home style didn’t provide the offensive support the Bruins need.

    Why These Moves Matter?

    Looking for Overtime Spark

    With defensemen Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm out, the Bruins need more puck-moving on the back end. Ian Mitchell isn’t a star but he’s more of an offensive player than Michael Callahan who was awful in his brief NHL stint. Mitchell’s offense— 27 points in 46 AHL games this season— could be a small but nice upgrade.

    Adding Depth and Physicality

    Georgii Merkulov brings offense the Bruins so desperately need. At 24 he’s still dominates the AHL with 44 points in 47 games. Jeffrey Viel adds size and physicality and is a solid replacement for Riley Tufte who didn’t impress during his recent call-up.

    Fresh Start for Players Sent Down

    For Riley Tufte, Oliver Wahlstrom and Michael Callahan going back to Providence is a chance to re-set and work on their games. Each has shown flashes but consistency is a problem. Hope is that time in the AHL will help them develop into more reliable options down the line.

    Player Spotlights

    Ian Mitchell: Long Overdue Recall

    Acquired in the Taylor Hall trade from the Blackhawks, Mitchell hasn’t played an NHL game this season after spending part of last year with the Bruins. In Providence, he’s been one of the top scoring D in 27 points in 46 games and a +11. He’s being called up because the Bruins need someone to score even if its just in a limited role.

    Georgii Merkulov: Offense

    Merkulov has been one of the top players in the Bruins system since signing as a free agent in 2022. With Trent Frederic out, Merkulov gets a chance to play higher up in the lineup. His speed and creativity makes him an interesting option as the Bruins push for a playoff spot.

    Jeffrey Viel: Bringing the Grime

    Viel is here because the Bruins want to keep some grit. He’s 6’2” 205lbs and not afraid to drop the gloves or throw his body around. He’s the energy the team needs to shake up a struggling lineup.

  • Could Brad Marchand Leave the Bruins? 5 Perfect Landing Spots for the Star Forward

    Could Brad Marchand Leave the Bruins? 5 Perfect Landing Spots for the Star Forward

    The Boston Bruins are at a fork in the road. With their playoff hopes on life support and key guys hurt, management has a tough decision to make: honor Brad Marchand’s request to stay in Boston or trade their captain to start a rebuild. Marchand has said he wants to play his whole career with the Bruins but the current situation may force them to move him before the trade deadline.

    If the Bruins do trade Marchand, several teams could benefit big time from acquiring the veteran winger. Let’s get into why the Bruins might do this, what Marchand brings to a lineup and which teams should be in.

    Why the Bruins Should Trade Marchand

    Playoff Chances are Slim

    The Bruins are two points from the playoff bubble but their chances are not good. They have 18% chance to make the playoffs and less than 1% chance to win the Stanley Cup. With Charlie McAvoy out indefinitely and Hampus Lindholm possibly done for the season the Bruins don’t have the depth to compete with other teams.

    And injuries like Trent Frederic’s recent setback makes things even more complicated. If Frederic is out long term it might push the management to trade Marchand to speed up the retooling process.

    Marchand’s Age and Term

    At 37 Marchand is getting older. Any multi-year deal would be a risk especially if he retires before it’s up. For a contender though he’s a short term asset. No movement clause—only 8 team no trade list—the Bruins have flexibility to make a deal.

    What Marchand Brings to a Lineup?

    Versatility and Experience

    Marchand’s scoring rate has dipped (2.56 points per 60) but he’s still a versatile player who can play anywhere. He can generate offense, kill penalties, energize his team he’s the perfect piece for a contender looking for that final piece.

    Marchand’s playoff experience is unmatched. He’s not the player he used to be but he can still elevate a team’s Cup chances with his leadership, tenacity and ability to perform under pressure.

    Room for Revival

    Much of Marchand’s decline may be due to lack of top line players in Boston. Playing with top talent could get his game going again even if it’s in a reduced role compared to his Bruins days.

    5 Teams That Should Be Interested in Brad Marchand

    1. Tampa Bay Lightning

    The Lightning have a common enemy with Marchand: the Florida Panthers. Adding Marchand’s grit and skill could be the difference-maker to beat their division rivals.

    • Fit: Marchand could play in the middle six, shutdown minutes or secondary scoring.
    • Trade challenges: Tampa Bay has limited prospects so the Bruins may need to retain salary or bring in a third party.

    2. New Jersey Devils

    The Devils need a top-six winger and a third-line center. Marchand could fill the former role and allow Ondrej Palat to slide down the depth chart.

    • Fit: With Nico Hischier or Jack Hughes, Marchand could be part of a top-six line.
    • Assets: New Jersey has three 2025 second-round picks and young players like Simon Nemec who could interest the Bruins.

    3. Edmonton Oilers

    Despite offseason additions, the Oilers still need consistent secondary scoring around Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl. Marchand could be the secondary scoring they’ve been missing.

    • Fit: Marchand would be better in a supporting role in Edmonton where he wouldn’t have to carry the load.
    • Trade Challenges: With limited draft capital, Edmonton would likely need to get creative with salary retention.

    4. Los Angeles Kings

    The Kings are absence game-breakers but have depth. Marchand would add to their top-9 and playoff experience to their forward group.

    • Fit: Whether alongside Anze Kopitar or mentoring young players like Quinton Byfield, Marchand would bring versatility and leadership.
    • Assets: The Kings have assets to negotiate a good deal.

    5. Vegas Golden Knights

    Vegas is loading up on center depth and defense, leaving the wings as an area for improvement. Marchand would immediately upgrade their second line.

    • Fit: As a left-winger behind Ivan Barbashev, Marchand would add scoring and grit.
    • Trade Challenges: Vegas has such a depleted prospect pool they’d likely have to move existing roster players to make a deal.

    FAQs About Trading Brad Marchand

    Why would the Bruins trade Brad Marchand?

    With slim playoff odds and needing to rebuild, trading Marchand would allow the Bruins to get assets for the future and addresses their current problems.

    Which teams are most likely to pursue Marchand?

    Contenders like the Tampa Bay Lightning, New Jersey Devils , Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, and Vegas Golden Knights are the obvious suitors given their needs and cap situations.

    What does Marchand bring to a new team?

    Marchand has playoff experience, versatility and can play in all situations. He’s a proven player who can help a contender win the Cup.

    Can Marchand retire mid contract?

    Yes, always with older players. But contenders prioritize short term gains over long term risks when acquiring veterans like Marchand.

    How will the Bruins replace Marchand?

    Trading Marchand would allow the Bruins to get prospects, draft picks or younger players to aid the rebuild. They have to if they want to be relevant in the future.

  • Noah Dobson Set to Return for Islanders vs. Bruins: What to Expect

    Noah Dobson Set to Return for Islanders vs. Bruins: What to Expect

    The New York Islanders are getting a much-needed shot in the arm just in time for a big game against the Boston Bruins. Assuming all goes well, Noah Dobson will be back in the lineup Thursday night after being on long-term injured reserve. Coach Patrick Roy said so after practice Wednesday.

    With the Islanders clinging to playoff life, Dobson’s return couldn’t have come at a better time. But will it be enough?

    Dobson’s Back: A Boost for the Blue Line

    What We Know

    After weeks of rehab and practice, Noah Dobson is ready to go. He skated with Adam Pelech Wednesday, while Ryan Pulock was with Adam Boqvist. The top pairing of Alexander Romanov and Tony DeAngelo remained the same.

    Roy isn’t nervous about Dobson’s insertion into the lineup. “He’s been working hard in practice so I’m not worried. I just want to see him control the puck, jump in the rush, defend well. Do the things he’s been doing since he’s been here.”

    The Impact of His Injury

    Dobson’s absence has been felt on both sides of the ice. He’s an offensive defenseman and his point production had slowed earlier this season before he was injured on Martin Luther King Jr. Day in a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

    Dobson hasn’t had many injuries in recent years but this one came at a tough time for the Islanders who have been inconsistent. His return adds this to a defense that has been shaky in his absence.

    Lineup Changes Ahead of Bruins Game

    If Dobson returns, Scott Perunovich is going to be out of the lineup. Perunovich had a tough night against the Rangers on Tuesday, minus-4 in the 5-1 loss. That was a big reminder of how the Islanders have struggled without Dobson.

    Hudson Fasching Also Back

    In addition to Dobson, forward Hudson Fasching is expected to be back in the lineup on Thursday. Fasching has been out since he got hurt in the overtime win against the Bruins on January 5. His return could be a boost to a 4th line that got destroyed against the Rangers.

    Coach Roy wants energy from Fasching and his linemates Kyle MacLean and Marc Gatcomb. “We want energy. That’s what we’re looking for,” Roy said. “That line needs to go out there, finish their checks, show some physicality. That’s what we want. That’s it.”

    A Must-Win Game Against the Bruins

    The Islanders are 7 points out of a playoff spot so this is a must win if they want to stay in it. While Dobson’s return is good timing it may not be enough to save their season. But having him on the ice gives them a shot against one of the toughest teams in the league.

    This one is big for the Islanders as their 11-3-0 stretch started with a OT win over the Bruins on January 5 — the same game Fasching was injured. Getting that momentum back could turn their season around.

    FAQs About Noah Dobson’s Return

    When is Noah Dobson returning?

    Noah Dobson is expected to return to the Islanders’ lineup on Thursday, February 27, 2025, against the Boston Bruins.

    Why is Noah Dobson’s return important?

    Dobson provides offensive firepower from the blue line and stabilizes a defense that has struggled without him. His return comes at a critical time as the Islanders fight to stay in playoff contention.

    Who will sit out if Noah Dobson plays?

    If Dobson returns, Scott Perunovich is expected to come out of the lineup after a poor performance against the Rangers.

    Is Hudson Fasching also returning?

    Yes, Hudson Fasching is likely to reenter the lineup on Thursday, marking his first game in nearly two months after being injured on January 5.

  • Boston Bruins Dealt 2 Brutal Injury Blows in Season-Altering Update

    Boston Bruins Dealt 2 Brutal Injury Blows in Season-Altering Update

    The Boston Bruins’ playoff hopes just got a whole lot harder. With defenseman Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm out due to injury, the team is in trouble defensively. GM Don Sweeney gave updates on both players and not good news for Bruins fans.

    Hampus Lindholm’s Season Done

    Sweeney said Sunday that Hampus Lindholm is “unlikely” to return this season after fracturing his patella (kneecap). Lindholm suffered the injury blocking a shot in November and had surgery shortly after. He’s scheduled for a follow up next week which will end his season.

    Before the injury Lindholm was playing big minutes (20:51 per game) and had 7 points in 17 games. His absence is a huge hole on the blue line especially given his experience and defensive reliability.

    Charlie McAvoy’s Uncertain Future

    Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy is out of the lineup with no timeline for return. McAvoy hurt his shoulder playing for Team USA at the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament and played another game after the injury. The Bruins were not happy with how Team USA managed the situation.

    To make matters worse, McAvoy was in the hospital for an infection recently. Sweeney wouldn’t elaborate but said McAvoy’s timeline is still uncertain. Before the injury McAvoy was averaging 23:40 minutes of ice time per game and 26 points in 48 games this season.

    Impact on the Boston Bruins’ Playoff Hopes

    Losing Lindholm and McAvoy is a huge hit to the Bruins’ playoff chances. Those two defensemen were 1st and 2nd on the team in ice time. Who’s going to fill the void?

    As of now the Bruins are 4th in the Eastern Conference wild-card race, one point behind the Ottawa Senators and Columbus Blue Jackets for the last playoff spot. But the Bruins have played one more game than the teams around them so it’s even tougher.

    FAQs About the Boston Bruins’ Injury Crisis

    Is Hampus Lindholm playing this season?

    No, he’s “out” after fracturing his patella. He’ll have a follow up procedure next week which will end his season.

    When is Charlie McAvoy back?

    No timeline. He’s still in the hospital due to an infection from his shoulder injury at the 4 Nations Face-Off.

    How important are McAvoy and Lindholm to the Bruins?

    McAvoy leads the team in average ice time (23:40) and has contributed 26 points this season, while Lindholm ranked second in ice time (20:51) and provided steady defensive play before his injury.

  • Will Brad Marchand Stay in Boston? Star Forward Breaks Silence on Contract Talks

    Will Brad Marchand Stay in Boston? Star Forward Breaks Silence on Contract Talks

    Boston Bruins captain Brad Marchand is at the center of the rumors as his contract winds down. With the Bruins struggling to make the playoffs and Marchand’s contract expiring, fans want answers on whether their fiery leader will be back in Boston beyond this season. Here’s everything you need to know about Marchand’s situation, his comments and what it means for the franchise going forward.

    Marchand Says “I’ve Always Planned on Playing Here My Entire Career”

    During Monday’s media availability, Brad Marchand addressed the swirling rumors surrounding his future with the Bruins. While he acknowledged negotiations are ongoing, he said he knows where he stands personally.

    “We’re in talks,” Marchand said. “I feel like I know where I’m at personally. But again, that’s gonna stay between us.”

    Marchand went on to say he’s not going anywhere.

    “I’ve always planned on playing here my entire career. That hasn’t changed. You know, they’re aware of that. Everyone’s aware of that. It’s a gift to be playing for this team and I take a lot of pride in it. So, yeah, that’s always been the goal.”

    Despite his words, Marchand is a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA) at the end of the season. His eight year, $49 million deal expires at the end of the year and both sides are running out of time to get a deal done before the trade deadline.

    Bruins GM Weighs In

    Bruins GM Don Sweeney spoke to the media over the weekend and confirmed that talks with Marchand are underway. No details on the terms or timeline of a potential extension yet.

    The Bruins are out of the playoff picture (1 point behind Ottawa and Columbus for the final wild card spot) so the front office has a tough decision to make. Do they sign Marchand or trade him to a contender for assets?

    The Trade Rumor Mill

    Brad Marchand’s name has been floated in trade rumors and he’s even was No. 10 on TSN’s Chris Johnston’s latest trade board. No indication the Bruins are looking to move their captain but several contenders could be interested if Boston decides to sell.

    Marchand’s resume:

    • Playoff Experience: 157 career playoff games with 138 points (56 goals, 82 assists)
    • Championship Pedigree: Won the Stanley Cup with Boston in 2011, the World Cup of Hockey with Canada in 2016 and the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off with Team Canada

    He’s a guy who elevates his game in big situations so he’s a target for teams looking to make a deep run.

    Bruins’ Playoff Push

    The Bruins are 27-24-7 and just a point behind the Senators and Blue Jackets for the final wild-card spot in the East. Every game matters now and Marchand’s leadership will be huge as Boston tries to extend its season.

    Tuesday night the Bruins host the Toronto Maple Leafs at the Garden, 7 p.m. EST. A win would be a big boost to the playoff hopes and maybe ease some of the tension around Marchand’s future.

    FAQs About Brad Marchand

    Is Brad Marchand leaving the Boston Bruins?

    Not necessarily. Marchand wants to finish his career in Boston but nothing is guaranteed until a new contract is signed.

    When does Brad Marchand’s contract expire?

    His current deal expires at the end of the 2024-25 season making him a pending UFA.

    Why are people talking about trading Brad Marchand?

    As a pending UFA with so much value he could bring back a lot in a trade. If the Bruins miss the playoffs they may move him to rebuild for the future.

    How good has Marchand been this season?

    At 36 he’s still playing at a high level, 45 points (20 goals, 25 assists) in 58 games this season.

  • Boston Bruins vs Toronto Maple Leafs: Game Preview, Predictions, and Odds | February 25, 2025

    Boston Bruins vs Toronto Maple Leafs: Game Preview, Predictions, and Odds | February 25, 2025

    The Boston Bruins will play against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday night at 7 p.m. on February 25, 2025. ET. Following their tough overtime loss to the Anaheim Ducks the Bruins are determined to break their current three-game losing streak and recapture crucial momentum. The Bruins need to win against Toronto since their opponent arrives with a winning streak which could significantly impact Boston’s playoff prospects. We will examine the upcoming game as the Bruins prepare to face their opponents.

    Boston Bruins Recent Performance

    With a record of 27 wins, 24 losses, and 7 ties Boston remains outside the playoff position in the Eastern Conference. Their recent performance has shown clear struggles as mounting losses combined with inconsistent gameplay continue to plague the team. The Bruins lost a 3-2 overtime game to Anaheim last time out while demonstrating their potential alongside obvious flaws.

    The Boston team anticipates Jeremy Swayman as their starting goaltender. The player achieved an 18-18-5 record this season along with a 2.98 GAA and .898 SV%. When facing Toronto teams Swayman has faced difficulties throughout his history with a 5-4 record and statistics showing a 2.85 goals against average alongside a .902 save percentage. Boston needs Jeremy Swayman to deliver an essential performance to keep Toronto’s powerful offense under control.

    Key players to watch for the Bruins include:

    David Pastrnak

    David Pastrnak is leading the way for the Bruins with 69 points so far this season. He’s fast, skilled and has a deadly shot. He’ll need to be on fire to beat Toronto. If the Bruins win, he’ll need to be at his best.

    Brad Marchand

    Brad Marchand has been another bright light for Boston with 45 points. He’s relentless and a playmaker. He’ll need help from his teammates to get through Toronto’s defense.

    Pavel Zacha and Morgan Geekie

    Pavel Zacha (33) and Morgan Geekie (30) round out Boston’s top players. Both will need to step up and provide secondary scoring to take some pressure off Pastrnak and Marchand.

    Head-to-Head: Bruins vs Maple Leafs

    The Bruins have the advantage in the all-time series 295-284-98-14 but Toronto has been the better team this season 35-20-2 coming off a 5-2 win over the Blackhawks.

    Here’s a quick rundown:

    • Goals per game: Bruins 2.74 vs Maple Leafs 3.15
    • Goals allowed per game: Bruins 3.17 vs Maple Leafs 2.82
    • Home record: Bruins 18-9-4 vs Maple Leafs’ road record 15-9-2

    Game Preview: Can the Bruins Turn it Around?

    The Bruins are in a tough spot 3 games in a row and out of the playoffs. Their offense is struggling to find consistency and their defense is leaky. To win this game they need:

    1. Good Goaltending: Swayman has to be great.
    2. Offense: Pastrnak and Marchand have to go.
    3. Home Ice: The Bruins are good at home this season and need the Garden to energize them.

    On the other side the Maple Leafs are rolling with Mitch Marner (71 points), William Nylander (58 points) and Auston Matthews (47 points) leading the way. Their goalie Anthony Stolarz has been good 2.13 GAA and .928 SV% this season.

    Odds and Prediction

    Toronto -126, Boston +105, O5.5

    Prediction: Bruins have home ice, but their recent form and offense have me leaning the other way. Leafs will control the game and win.

    Final Score Prediction: Leafs 3, Bruins 1

    Betting Tips

    1. Toronto ML (-126): Leafs are in better form here.
    2. Under 5.5 (-102): Both teams have good goaltenders so should be a lower scoring game.