Bruins Squander Game 2, 3-2
Despite taking a 2-1 lead into the dying minutes of the 2nd, Leafs took advantage of a later PP and they converted to make it 2-2 after 2. It was such a momentum killer for Boston, who seemed to stop playing their brand of hockey after the first period. Auston Matthews buried the game winner all alone late in the 3rd and that was all she wrote.
FINAL: Toronto 3, Boston 2
- Linus Ullmark started instead of Jeremy Swayman. Made several big stops and finished the night with 30 saves. I think they should've went to Swayman and gone to Ullmark in Game 3 no matter what. Bottom line is the goalie wasn't the problem tonight. But it will be a talking point going forward. Expect Swayman in Game 3 in Toronto.
- Second straight game that William Nylander missed for Toronto, Bruins could not capitalize in his absence.
- I've said it a million times but special teams will be a difference maker in this series. While the both teams converted 1/3 of their power plays, it was the lack of discipline of the calls. Can't have too many men on the ice called in a playoff game. Just can't have it. I know Geekie scored early, but Boston's power play opportunities late in the game were a bit dysfunctional to say the least.
- This Zacha feed to Pastrnak was insane. Nice to see 88 get on the scoresheet.
- You knew Toronto's stars weren't going to be silenced forever. Big game for Auston Matthews and John Tavares. Matthews is a freak.
- Andrew Peeke left the game in the 2nd, no word on the extent of his injury. Took a puck off the hand.
- I think you'll see Kevin Shattenkirk sit for Parker Wotherspoon (or maybe even Derek Forbort!?). While his offense is needed, his defense tonight simply wasn't up to par. Couldn't get in the lane to block the shot for Tavares' spin around PPG.
Just a pretty frustrating lack of urgency from Boston. Blew not one but two leads. Squandered opportunity. But hey, no one said it this was going to be easy.We're onto Game 3. See you Wednesday night up North. Likely lineup changes coming from Montgomery.