The Boston Bruins and Toronto Maple Leafs will be among the teams featured in the playoffs after outstanding performances in each of the regular seasons. Until then, everyone has a good challenge to master, because the two clubs meet on Thursday.
• Also read: Martin St-Louis expects to answer “tough questions” ahead of the game to support the LGBTQ+ community
• Also read: Flames: More Behind the Darryl Sutter-Jakob Pelletier Story
The Montreal Canadiens’ two historic rivals, although they didn’t appear to be playing in the same league this season, are also putting up a good fight. Both are at the top of the Atlantic Division and could cross paths in the second round of the playoffs if the Leafs put an end to their famous bad luck.
The latter already know their opponent in the first round: the Tampa Bay Lightning. The Bruins will most likely face the Florida Panthers, the New York Islanders or the Pittsburgh Penguins.
“This first round is going to be tough no matter who we play,” admitted head coach Jim Montgomery at a press conference on Wednesday. We are preparing for how difficult it will be. We will continue to rest players. We’re trying to be ready for the playoffs.”
As a result, Patrice Bergeron has not played his last two games and David Krejci may well have a turn to rest, albeit due to a minor injury.
“I think he’s still uncomfortable. We will see. We will proceed cautiously. His case is uncertain for tomorrow. We’ll see in the morning,” Montgomery said of the Czech who had to leave practice.
Soon for Taylor Hall
One of the lingering questions in the Bruins camp is whether Taylor Hall can get some playing time before the playoffs. The striker has been injured since the end of February.
Head coach Jim Montgomery said he didn’t expect to see him in uniform against the Leafs. Hall went ice skating with the group Wednesday for the first time since February 25.
“I’m feeling good. I was trying to use this time while everyone else was playing to rest and make sure my spirit is ready for what will hopefully be a long playoff run. I feel rested. I have a feeling that I have the energy that guys across the league will be lacking at this time.”
O’Reilly as a replacement
On Toronto’s side, forward Ryan O’Reilly will return to the squad after 14 games away. The former St. Louis Blues captain’s name was placed on the long-term injured list after receiving a one-handed throw from Auston Matthews.
O’Reilly has had a rollercoaster start with the Leafs since joining the team ahead of the trade deadline. On February 21, he scored a hat trick against the Buffalo Sabers.
The 32-year-old veteran has collected five points in eight games with his new team.