The Boston Bruins saw history repeat itself in Game 5. With the opportunity to close out the series on home ice, the team lost in heartbreaking fashion. Flipping the script can happen in Game 6, where the Bruins will look to put forth a better effort. Here is what to expect as the Bruins try to defeat the Maple Leafs and move onto the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
What can we expect from the Bruins in Game 6 against Toronto after their heartbreaking overtime loss in Game 5.
The Bruins couldn’t bring an end to the Maple Leafs season this past Tuesday, but are looking to turn the tides. Auston Matthews will once again be unavailable, which is a big blow for the Maple Leafs. Boston will look to strike and capitalize in a pivotal Game 6.
Jim Montgomery discusses Physical and Mental Improvements
Jim Montgomery discussed the area they could enhance before facing Toronto. He emphasized the importance of both physical and mental improvements, as well as staying focused in the present moment. According to Montgomery, the team struggled with staying in the moment during the previous game, and they are determined to rectify that in order to perform better in the upcoming matchup.
“Some of that’s physical and some of that’s mental, some of it’s staying in the moment that we talk about. I don’t think we did a good job of staying in the moment last night. That’s what we’re looking for to get better for next game” said Jim Montgomery Wednesday morning.
🎥Coach Montgomery on improving from Game 5: "Some of that's physical and some of that's mental, some of it's staying in the moment that we talk about. I don't think we did a good job of staying in the moment last night. That's what we're looking for to get better for next game." pic.twitter.com/EOopJDECYW
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) May 1, 2024
Charlie McAvoy Emphasizes the Present
Charlie McAvoy, who discussed the team’s loss in Game 5, opened up about the upcoming matchup in Toronto during a Wednesday morning interview. He emphasized the importance of focusing on the present series and making the most out of each opportunity. According to McAvoy he believes that the team’s experience will help them succeed.
“Well, starting by not reflecting on last year or really anything like that. You get these opportunities in series and you have to make the most of them. The fourth game is the hardest one to get, but we have some experience in it and for us it’s about playing our best game and seeing where the chips fall” Said Charlie McAvoy on Wednesday morning.
🎥 Charlie McAvoy on the #NHLBruins Game 5 loss: "We met this morning to go over it. I think that was really productive and we're looking forward to getting out of here today and getting to Toronto…was a lot of things we needed to hear, needed to see. We'll be better for it." pic.twitter.com/qv0ewIJRuT
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) May 1, 2024
Toronto vs. Bruins Playoff History
Since 1959, Toronto has been on the losing end in six consecutive playoff series against the Bruins. This is the 17th encounter between Boston and Toronto in the playoffs, and interestingly, both teams have an equal record of 8 wins and 8 losses in their previous 16 playoff series. The Original Six teams last clashed in the postseason back in 2019, where the Bruins emerged victorious in a thrilling seven-game series against the Maple Leafs. As the series progresses, fans can expect an intense and fierce battle between these two teams. With the rivalry reaching new heights the Bruins must ignite their passion and bring their A-game once more. With the pressure building for both teams, Game 6 has now become a crucial moment in the series. Can the Bruins secure victory in round 1 and triumph in Toronto? Or will Toronto force a Game 7 showdown in Boston?
Main Photo: Bob DeChiara-USA TODAY Sports