Amid the Jeremy Swayman contract saga, the Boston Bruins played their fifth preseason game Tuesday night and defeated the Philadelphia Flyers 4-1 at TD Garden. Justin Brazeau scored his second goal in as many games and Tyler Johnson tallied his first with the Bruins as the 34-year-old looks for a new contract. Charlie Coyle and Mark Kastelic sealed the victory with empty-net goals.
With two preseason games remaining, here are some news and notes:
Brad Marchand appeared in his first preseason game but had to leave after one period due to an illness. Head Coach Jim Montgomery was sick the day before and missed practice but felt better and wanted to play. However, Marchand had to call it a night after feeling ill again.
Goaltender Brandon Bussi is the leading candidate to be the backup to Joonas Korpisalo and needed a good showing. After allowing another rebound goal to Travis Konecny, Bussi settled down and made a few excellent saves including a stop on a partial breakaway by former Bruin Anthony Richard. Bussi finished with 13 saves.
Elias Lindholm made his first appearance in a Bruins uniform and showed why he is considered a “Patrice Bergeron-like” player. On a line with David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha, Lindholm performed well and also played some of the bumper position on the power play.
The combination of Coyle and Morgan Geekie produced five scoring chances in the first period. Geekie is one of the candidates for the second-line right-wing competition.
Along with his goal, Kastelic recorded five shots on net and is becoming a fan favorite due to his willingness to mix it up as he was involved in several after-the-whistle scrums.
Brandon Carlo led the Bruins with five blocked shots. Andrew Peeke led the defensemen with four shots on goal.
John Beecher struggled at the faceoff dot, winning just two of seven draws. Lindholm won just four out of 12.
The Bruins will play the Los Angeles Kings in Quebec City on Thursday night. Korpsialo will likely get the start in goal for that one.
Season 4. Episode 29. The Offseason Begins. – Bruins Benders Podcast
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