In Game 2 of the 2024 NHL Stanley Cup Playoff Eastern Conference second-round series, the Florida Panthers and Boston Bruins showed no signs of affection towards each other. After the Bruins’ remarkable 5-1 victory on Monday, the Panthers swiftly retaliated by securing a resounding 6-1 victory in game two on Wednesday, the series is now tied at a game each. The Panthers netted six consecutive goals after the Bruins initially took a 1-0 lead, marking the highest number of unanswered goals in a playoff game in franchise history.
A total of 136 penalty minutes were dished out in the third period alone. This game marked the first playoff match since 2015 where both teams accumulated over 70 penalty minutes. Together, the two teams amassed a total of 17 penalties in the last period.
Boston’s Jim Montgomery Provide Perspective on Thrilling Game 2 vs Florida
During a post-game press conference Jim Montgomery and other Bruins players were asked about the game and about the chaos that had ensued on the ice, especially during the third period. Jim Montgomery, specifically, was requested to address the matter of fights and penalties from a third-person perspective, and express any concerns he may have regarding their potential spill-over. Montgomery had no qualms about it and expressed pride in Pastrnak’s actions after the game.
“I’m proud of Pasta, said Jim Montgomery post-game. “There are so many players pushing after the whistle when the linesmen are there. Pasta and Tkachuk just went out and fought. That is what you like, you like your Hockey players to be competitive”
Jeremy Swayman expressed his unwavering confidence in his team to the press on Wednesday evening, emphasizing their resilience and determination. He appeared composed as he discussed his teammates and eagerly anticipated Game 3 at TD Garden.
“We have so much belief, we have so much confidence in this room and to see the way that we responded, we’re never gonna back down”, Said Jeremy Swayman during a post-game interview.
David Pastrnak reflects on his altercation with Matthew Tkachuk in the third period, expressing a desire to handle it differently. However, his main focus is now on Game 3 in Boston.
“Wish I approached it a little bit better but like I said, I haven’t been in many of those”, said David Pastrnak during a post-game interview.
🎥 Coach Montgomery, David Pastrnak, Jeremy Swayman, and Brad Marchand react following the #NHLBruins Game 2 loss to Florida: pic.twitter.com/azp9ri4E5d
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) May 9, 2024
Pastrnak Fight Caps off Game 2
With the Florida Panthers dominating Game 2, Pastrnak, decided to make a statement before heading back to Beantown. In the late stages of the third period, Pastrnak initiated a fight with Tkachuk. Although things didn’t go entirely in his favour, he showed that he’s not one to back down from anyone.
PASTRNAK AND TKACHUK DROP THE GLOVES! 🥊 pic.twitter.com/RQqDxyOO2F
— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) May 9, 2024
One person who thoroughly enjoyed the brawl was Tkachuk’s father, Keith. The former NHL tough guy was spotted in the crowd, giving a thumbs up, smiling, and applauding his son’s efforts. The fight had been brewing throughout the entire period. The two stars had exchanged words at centre ice and decided to drop the gloves during their next encounter.
Eyes are Set on Game 3
It’s no surprise that this year’s series went off the rails in just six periods, considering what happened in last season’s first-round series upset. Moreover, these two teams have a strong dislike for each other, and their physicality is undeniable. As the series moves to Boston for Game 3 at TD Garden, it’s hard to imagine the intensity decreasing in the slightest. Get ready for an epic clash tonight at TD Garden! All eyes are on this thrilling matchup, and we’re in for an incredible showdown between these two teams. Will there be any lingering tension from previous games? Only time will reveal the answer. Don’t forget to tune in tonight and witness the excitement firsthand!
Main photo credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports
