The Boston Bruins started the 2023-24 season a perfect 6-0-0, the franchise’s best start since 1937-38. The Bruins haven’t been perfect, but one constant has been their defensive structure and excellent goaltending. After a four-game road trip, the Bruins returned home Thursday night to TD Garden for a rematch with the Anaheim Ducks. After a slow start, the Bruins trailed 1-0. But a great second period saw Boston score three goals and take what seemed to be a commanding lead. However, a complete breakdown with the goalie pulled caused the Bruins to surrender two goals and eventually lose 4-3 in overtime. Here are three takeaways (or concerns) from last night’s implosion:
Slow Starts Becoming the Norm For Bruins
The Bruins have surrendered the first goal in a game four times this season and seem to take some time to get their feet under them. This is a different team than last year’s offensive juggernaut, so the Bruins have to play a more defensive style and take advantage of their opportunities. Therefore, there is a lot less of a margin for error with the team. The upcoming schedule gets more challenging, and Boston will need better starts to games.
The Depth Will Be Challenged
The Bruins were without fourth-line wingers Milan Lucic and Jakub Lauko on Thursday, forcing Patrick Brown and Jesper Boqvist into the lineup. The results weren’t great, as Boqvist played just 6:02 of ice time, and Brown was out there for 7:44 and committed a costly penalty in the final minutes. Neither had a shot on goal. As the season moves along and injuries occur, the depth of the team will be tested. Lucic should be out a couple of weeks, and Lauko still has another week before returning.
What Is Wrong With Hampus Lindholm?
Hampus Lindholm had a Norris Trophy-worthy season last year with a league-leading plus-49. This season, Lindholm has been up and down, and on Thursday, the 29-year-old was a dreadful minus-4. The talented defenseman has not been sure with the puck lately and has been indecisive defensively. Lindholm has yet to register a point and will need to be better going forward. Recently, the former Duck has been paired with Brandon Carlo but could see time back with Charlie McAvoy soon.
It doesn’t get easier for the Bruins as they face the 5-2-1 Detroit Red Wings on Saturday at TD Garden. Alex DeBrincat has nine goals in the young season, and linemate Dylan Larkin has posted fifteen points. The Bruins will have to start and finish better to knock off their divisional foe.
