The Boston Bruins’ performance in their game against the Nashville Predators was lackluster, to say the least. Despite a valiant effort in the final period, the team simply could not overcome their sluggish start and lost the game 2-1. The Bruins were expected to secure home-ice advantage and clinch the Presidents’ Trophy that day, but they fell short against a struggling Nashville team.
Bruins Fail to Meet Expectations
The Bruins struggled throughout the game, particularly in their passing and checking game. They couldn’t generate quality scoring chances, and their power play issues continued throughout the game. Despite assembling a healthy rotation within the team’s blue-line and bottom six, they simply couldn’t get it together.
Captain Patrice Bergeron, alternate captain Brad Marchand, and coach Jim Montgomery all described the team’s performance as disrespectful to the game and falling short of their standards. The players were disappointed with their efforts, acknowledging that they didn’t play their own game or respect their usual standards of playing.
A Strenuous Schedule Takes its Toll
The team attributes its poor performance to its incredibly strenuous schedule over the past few weeks, with 12 games over 19 days. Their nearly two-month drought has crept into the players’ heads, causing them to force plays and fail to generate follow-up opportunities.
Despite changes made in both alignment and personnel, Boston’s power-play was still ineffective in this game. With an 0-for-5 showing against Nashville, it became clear that changes would have to be made if Boston were to improve its power-play performance.
McDonagh Skips Flight to Be with Daughters After Shooting Tragedy
In contrast with Boston’s poor showing on Tuesday night, defenseman Ryan McDonagh stayed home after a fatal Nashville school shooting occurred earlier that day to be with his children. McDonagh caught a commercial flight to Boston and helped the Predators beat the Bruins 2-1, while both teams wore helmet stickers to remember the victims.
McDonagh emphasized the impact of the shooting on himself as a parent and his desire to help his family and kids out. Despite everything going on in Nashville, McDonagh made sure to come through for his team when they needed him most.
Teams Unite in Remembrance of Shooting Victims
Both the Predators and Bruins wore helmet stickers to show support for the victims of the shooting and held a moment of silence before the game. Predators coach John Hynes spoke with his team about the importance of their platform as professional athletes and coaches, emphasizing their need to bring relief and inspiration to a wounded city.
The Predators’ win was of little importance compared to what it meant for the people back home in Nashville, but it was still a relief. Hynes talked about how important it is for professional athletes to understand just how much of an impact they can have on their communities.
Busy Schedule Continues for Bruins
Boston’s schedule continues with an upcoming game against the lowly Blue Jackets. With so many games recently played, Coach Montgomery has made it clear that he wants to keep his players sharp and fresh for the playoffs during this busy slate.
Despite Boston’s disappointing loss against Nashville, it’s important that they maintain some perspective. The team will have another chance to clinch the Presidents’ Trophy and secure their record 58th win of the season on Thursday night against Columbus at TD Garden.
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