No team in the histories of the NHL, NBA, and Major League Baseball has ever blown a 3-1 lead and lost a best-of-seven series in back-to-back postseasons. However, the Boston Bruins have put themselves in a precarious position by losing two games in a row against the Toronto Maple Leafs, forcing a Game 7 on Saturday night.
The Bruins have faced the Maple Leafs in the first round of the playoffs three times in the past seven years, winning the previous two showdowns. The Leafs have become known for falling short at this time of year, making it a rite of spring. However, the pressure is now on Boston to deliver another victory.
One of the factors working in Boston’s favor is the absence of star forward Auston Matthews from the Leafs’ lineup since late in Game 4. Matthews, who scored 69 goals during the regular season, is a significant contributor to his team’s success. His availability for Game 7 remains uncertain, adding an element of uncertainty to the matchup.
Goaltender Jeremy Swayman emphasized the importance of treating every playoff game as if it were a Game 7. The team understands the intensity required and aims to bring their best performance. However, this mindset may not be enough for the Bruins, who find themselves in a similar situation to last year.
In the previous season, the Bruins set league records for wins and points in a regular season but ended up losing in seven games after taking a 3-1 lead against the Florida Panthers. Coach Jim Montgomery acknowledged that they are not dwelling on their past failures and are solely focused on the present. However, another disappointing outcome could put his job in jeopardy.
On the Leafs’ side, defenseman Morgan Rielly dismissed the notion that pressure has shifted from his team to the Bruins. He believes that both teams have high expectations and face equal amounts of pressure. Betting odds slightly favor Boston for the upcoming game, according to BetMGM Sportsbook.
To regain control of the series, the Bruins need to start stronger. In Games 5 and 6 combined, they were outshot 23-3 in the first period, putting them at a significant disadvantage. Additionally, they need more production from David Pastrnak, who scored 47 goals in the regular season but only has two goals and two assists in the playoffs. Captain Brad Marchand has been a standout performer for the Bruins, but Pastrnak needs to step up in critical moments.
The winner of this Game 7 matchup will advance to face the Florida Panthers in the next round. The Panthers have been resting since eliminating the Tampa Bay Lightning in five games. Forward Sam Reinhart emphasized the importance of taking advantage of the break to recharge both mentally and physically for the upcoming battle.
In conclusion, the Boston Bruins find themselves in a must-win Game 7 against the Toronto Maple Leafs after losing two consecutive games. The absence of Auston Matthews adds uncertainty to the matchup, but the Bruins must perform at their best to avoid a repeat of last year’s disappointment. The pressure is on for key players like David Pastrnak to step up and deliver in critical moments. The winner of this game will go on to face the well-rested Florida Panthers in the next round.
