Opinion
4 min read

Bruins Set to Strike Lightning at TD Garden Showdown

As the Boston Bruins gear up for their next challenge against the Tampa Bay Lightning, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a thrilling encounter at TD Garden. The Bruins, who have shown resilience and skill in their recent games, are poised to take on a formidable opponent.


wwNov 20, 2023; Tampa, Florida, USA; Boston Bruins center Johnny Beecher (19) is congratulated after he scored against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the third period at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

In their last game on December 24th against the Minnesota Wild, the Bruins displayed a mixed performance. Despite securing two goals and maintaining an even strength throughout most of the match, they fell short with a final score of 2-3. The statistics reveal areas where improvement is needed; they won only 45 percent of faceoffs and had a shooting percentage of just 10 percent. However, it's worth noting that they managed to block an impressive number of shots (12) and delivered solid hits (19), showcasing their defensive capabilities.


The powerplay opportunities were somewhat capitalized upon by scoring one goal out of two chances. This shows that when given the chance, BOS can make it count but need to create more such opportunities against TB.


Nov 20, 2023; Tampa, Florida, USA; Tampa Bay Lightning left wing Tanner Jeannot (84) is congratulated by center Tyler Motte (64) after he scored a goal against the Boston Bruins during the first period at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

On December 23rd against Winnipeg Jets, BOS faced another tough loss with only one goal scored while conceding five. Their shooting percentage was even lower at four percent despite taking more shots (25). Faceoff wins were also lacking as they secured just 43 percent which might indicate why puck possession was an issue in this game.


However, looking back at December 20th's nail-biter versus Minnesota Wild again shows us what BOS is capable of when pushing themselves to the limit. They fought hard into overtime but ultimately lost by one goal in a high-scoring affair (3-4). They improved on faceoffs winning them at a rate of 62 percent and had better control over puck possession which allowed them more shots on target (43).


Nov 20, 2023; Tampa, Florida, USA; Boston Bruins defenseman Hampus Lindholm (27) and Jeremy Swayman (1) defend Tampa Bay Lightning left wing Brandon Hagel (38) during the first period at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement Neitzel-USA TODAY Sports

These past performances suggest that while there are evident strengths within this team such as defensive shot-blocking and physicality through hits; there are also clear areas for improvement particularly in faceoff win percentages and converting powerplay opportunities.


The upcoming game will test whether BOS can harness these strengths while addressing weaknesses effectively against TB who will not be easy opponents by any means. Fans should expect BOS to come out strong defensively as usual but also look for them to be more aggressive offensively especially during powerplays if they want to secure victory.


The scheduled date for this much-awaited clash is February 14th – Valentine's Day – adding an extra layer of excitement for fans hoping their beloved team will show some love by clinching a win. Puck drop is set for TD Garden in Boston with national coverage available via ESPN+ online or NESN channel 628 locally; away fans can tune into BSSUN channel 653.

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