The season opener for the Boston Bruins is this coming Tuesday in Florida against the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers, and only one preseason game remains on the schedule in the meantime. On Thursday night in Quebec City, the Bruins fell to the Los Angeles Kings 4-1 in a game where veterans Charlie Coyle, Pavel Zacha, and David Pastrnak generated just one shot on goal combined. After the game, Head Coach Jim Montgomery mentioned a primary reason for the defeat.
“I thought in the first we were asleep. We weren’t moving our legs. … It wasn’t a very good game by us in that sense,” Montgomery said. “We’re looking at how we’re progressing, not just this game, but throughout camp.” Montgomery, entering his third season at the Bruins’ helm also acknowledged an anticipation for countable games. “I do think a lot of guys are looking forward to Tuesday. For a lot of guys this was their last exhibition game,” he said. “It’s more about timing for veterans. For guys trying to make the team, it’s more about impressing.”
The Bruins were outplayed from the start, outshot 11-2 in the first period, and mustered just 14 shots on goal in the game. The Kings won their fourth preseason game in a row and were led by center Quinton Byfield who notched a hat trick in the win. Boston could not generate much offense as Patrick Brown, Tyler Johnson, and Jeffrey Viel were the only Bruins to register two shots.
Forwards, Brad Marchand (illness), Matt Poitras (day-to-day), and Elias Lindholm (rest) did not play, but consistent offensive production and balance are a concern as the season begins. Boston has scored 15 goals in six exhibition games and will again rely heavily on Pastrnak to be the key offensive threat. What the Bruins get from others throughout the lineup is yet to be seen.
Other notes – Forward Max Jones made his preseason debut and registered one shot as he competes for a bottom-six spot on opening night…Joonas Korpisalo allowed four goals on 26 shots in the loss and will be the opening night starter in goal…Brown scored the lone Boston goal…Former Bruin great Patrice Bergeron was honored in his native Quebec before the game.
