Canadiens Vs. Bruins, Game 2: Habs Win 3-1, Take Both Games In Boston

The Boston Bruins finally scored a goal in the second period of Game 2 in their playoff series against the Montreal Canadiens, but they gave a goal back late and will be going into the third period down by two goals. The Habs lead by a score of 3-1, and Boston have their work cut out for them in the third period.

Boston’s goal came with 12:22 remaining in the second period, and their fans will be happy that they were finally able to create something off the rush. Brad Marchand started the move, surging down the wing into the zone. He hit an impressive cross-ice pass for Mark Recchi, who hit a centering pass for Patrice Bergeron. The entire Montreal defense and Carey Price were caught out of position, and Bergeron scored easily to make it 2-1.

After Thursday night’s Game 1, Zdeno Chara of the Boston Bruins checked himself into a hospital due to illness. Earlier today, Pro Hockey Talk reported that his status for the game was unknown, but that one source speculated that Chara would play Game 2 against the Montreal Canadiens. Now, just minutes before the puck drops, we’ve learned that Chara will not play, via the official twitter feed of the Bruins.

Thomas and Chara brought what they needed to bring in Game 1, but the talent around them needs to step up if Boston is going to keep the series tight. Simple fundamentals like keeping concentration and getting bodies towards the net were the Bruins’ undoing in Game 1, not any inherent talent deficiencies or systemic flaws. Simple upgrades in the effort and concentration departments should be all the Bruins need to play winning hockey. For the Canadiens, there aren’t any changes to make. They keep it simple, and they do simple well.