Peepin' Foes: Boston Bruins

Where We Are: In better shape now that Rich Peverley and the Moose helped tame the Panthers. Florida's game in hand is gone so now getting in the playoffs has less to do with how they do and everything to do with how the Rangers play. The on-again-off-again intensity is troublesome at this time of year and mental slips like those that plagued the Blueshirts against the Canes are unacceptable.

Where They Are: Oh, first place and on a five game win streak. That's all.

Who To Watch For: MSG pointed out during the Carolina game that Mark Recchi leads all active players in goals against the Rangers. Former Blueshirt Marc Savard is still stellar and David Krejci seems to be following in his footsteps to become a top notch setup man with 11 assists in his last nine games. Milan Lucic seems to have been completely healed from his injuries earlier this season and is playing some scary hockey. Zdeno Chara is always scary and Dennis Wideman may be the most underappreciated defenseman in the NHL.

What To Watch For: The Rangers have been notoriously terrible in matinee matches either from sleeping in and never getting started or taking midafternoon naps and falling apart later on. There is no possible excuse for them not to come out of the gates flying given the gravity of their situation.

What We'll (Hopefully) See: Wade Redden not on the power play. Rozy to return strong and actually shoot the puck. Colton Orr to see more than three minutes of time against the oversized Bruins. Markus Naslund to find whatever gas is left in the tank and hit the accelerator for the last four games. Chris Drury to rediscover some of the magic he had when he played for BU and earned a spot in the Beanpot Hall of Fame. Tim Thomas to show the usual big contract signing hangover.

Also Check Out: Hub Hockey, Stanley Cup of Chowder and Cornelius Hardenbergh and the Hockey Blog Adventure.

 Peepin' Foes: Boston Bruins - A Closer Look at the Beantown Hockey Heroes

The Boston Bruins, one of the National Hockey League's (NHL) Original Six franchises, have a storied history filled with triumphs, legendary players, and passionate fans. In this article, we'll take an in-depth look at the Boston Bruins, their rich history, notable players, and what to expect from the team in the upcoming season. We'll also address some frequently asked questions about this iconic NHL franchise.

The Legacy of the Boston Bruins

Origins of Greatness: Founded in 1924, the Boston Bruins quickly established themselves as a powerhouse in the NHL. They won their first Stanley Cup in 1929 and have since added six more to their collection.

Bobby Orr Era: The 1970s were dominated by the legendary Bobby Orr, widely regarded as one of the greatest defensemen in NHL history. Orr led the Bruins to two Stanley Cup victories in 1970 and 1972.

Ray Bourque: After Orr's departure, another iconic defenseman, Ray Bourque, carried the Bruins' legacy. Despite not winning a Cup with Boston, Bourque's impact on the franchise and the city is immeasurable.

The Patrice Bergeron Era: In recent years, the Bruins have been led by Patrice Bergeron, an elite two-way center. Under his leadership, the team reached the Stanley Cup Final twice in 2011 and 2013, winning the latter.

The 2022-2023 Boston Bruins Season

Roster Overview: The Bruins' roster features a mix of seasoned veterans and young talents. Bergeron, Brad Marchand, and David Pastrnak remain the core of the team's offense, while Charlie McAvoy anchors the defense.

Goaltending Situation: Tuukka Rask has been a stalwart in the Bruins' net for years, but his future with the team is uncertain due to injury concerns. Jeremy Swayman, a promising rookie, could step into a more prominent role.

Coaching Staff: Bruce Cassidy, the head coach, has been instrumental in the team's success. His tactical approach and ability to develop young talent have earned him praise.

Expectations: Bruins fans have high hopes for the upcoming season. With a strong core of players, they aim to compete for the Stanley Cup once again.

FAQs About the Boston Bruins

What is the significance of the "Big Bad Bruins" nickname?

The "Big Bad Bruins" nickname is a nod to the team's physical style of play in the 1970s. They were known for their aggressive and intimidating play on the ice.

Why is Bobby Orr considered one of the greatest NHL players of all time?

Bobby Orr revolutionized the defenseman position. His offensive prowess and ability to control the game from the blue line were unprecedented. He remains the only defenseman to win the NHL scoring title (Art Ross Trophy) twice.

Has the team's playing style evolved over the years?

Yes, the Bruins have adapted to changes in the game. While they were known for their physical play in the past, they now emphasize a more balanced, skill-based approach.

What is the "Curse of Ray Bourque"?

The "Curse of Ray Bourque" refers to the notion that the Bruins' inability to win a Stanley Cup during Bourque's career was a sort of curse. This "curse" was famously broken when Bourque won the Cup with the Colorado Avalanche in 2001 after being traded.

Looking Ahead

The Boston Bruins, with their rich history and passionate fan base, are always a team to watch in the NHL. As they prepare for the upcoming season, fans eagerly anticipate another exciting chapter in the franchise's storied history. With experienced veterans and promising young talent, the future looks promising for the Beantown hockey heroes.

In conclusion, the Boston Bruins are more than just a hockey team; they are a symbol of pride for the city of Boston and a testament to the enduring legacy of the NHL's Original Six. Whether you're a die-hard Bruins fan or a casual observer of the sport, the Boston Bruins continue to capture the imagination of hockey enthusiasts around the world, and their story is far from over.