The Boston Bruins are eager to rebound from a recent setback as they face off against the Ottawa Senators in a crucial matchup before the All-Star break. Following a nine-game point streak, the Bruins suffered a 3-2 home loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, snapping a five-game winning streak and a 6-0-3 run. Despite Brad Marchand’s two third-period goals, Jordan Martinook’s late breakaway secured Boston’s first regulation defeat since January 4.
Bruins forward Charlie Coyle emphasized the team’s resilience, stating, “We’ve responded to challenges all year,” and stressed the importance of maintaining effort and focus. Coach Jim Montgomery acknowledged the team’s strong comeback from a 2-0 deficit but expressed concerns about their overall performance, particularly in managing close-game situations. Montgomery highlighted the need to avoid forcing plays and losing defensive position.
In an attempt to ignite the offense, Montgomery experimented with a line featuring Marchand, Coyle, and Trent Frederic. Frederic, with points in three straight games and five of his past seven, contributed assists on both of Marchand’s goals. Marchand, now tied with Ray Bourque for fifth on the Bruins’ all-time goal-scoring list with 395, remains a key offensive force for Boston.
Despite the loss, the Bruins maintained a respectable record in the first game of back-to-back sets this season, going 4-3-1. They are 3-2-2 in the second game, showcasing their ability to bounce back after initial challenges. Linus Ullmark’s solid performance with 30 saves on Wednesday might give way to Jeremy Swayman, who boasts a 4-0-3 record in his past seven starts, as the starting goalie against Ottawa.
On the other side, the Ottawa Senators enter the matchup with a two-game winning streak, including a 4-1 victory over the Montreal Canadiens. With a 4-1-1 record in their last six games, the Senators have demonstrated improved defensive play and a balanced offensive attack. Shane Pinto, returning from a 41-game suspension for sports wagering-related activities, has made an impact with points in his two games back.
Interim coach Jacques Martin, who took over in December, praised his team’s commitment away from the puck and highlighted improved penalty-killing. Ottawa aims to continue their positive momentum in a three-game homestand leading up to the All-Star break. However, the Senators will be without defenseman Travis Hamonic, who is sidelined with an upper-body injury for the second straight game.
As both teams seek crucial points before the All-Star break, the Bruins aim to quickly bounce back from their recent defeat, while the Senators look to extend their winning streak and solidify their improved defensive play. The matchup promises to be a test of resilience and strategic adjustments for both teams as they jockey for position in the competitive Atlantic Division.
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