For the first time in almost a calendar year, the Boston Bruins find themselves in a three-game losing streak, but this one seems a little different. Last season, the Bruins lost three in a row in late January to Tampa Bay, Florida, and Carolina consecutively en route to a historic 65-win season. Boston has now lost three in a row this season but in a less-competitive fashion, with three three-goal defeats to the likes of Detroit, the New York Rangers, and a struggling Columbus squad. This time, it feels as though the Bruins are reeling and getting away from what has made them remarkably successful the last two seasons. Here are three takeaways from a tough five-day stretch for Jim Montgomery’s club.
The Bruins Need to Get Back to Basics
Boston has been one of the better defensive teams for the past few seasons in the NHL and this year was no different. A solid defensive structure and elite goaltending have been a great combination in leading the Bruins to the top of the league. In the last three games, the Bruins have gotten away from their identity as Montgomery has stated recently. The team has allowed 17 goals in the three losses and needs to get back to basics.
The Leadership Will be Tested
With the retirement of Patrice Bergeron, Brad Marchand became captain, something that many fans thought would never happen. But Marchand has matured and become an all-time great Bruin over the years. This is the first adversity the team has suffered with their new leadership group, including Charlie McAvoy and David Pastrnak. How will the Bruins respond, and is the leadership in the room strong enough? The proof will come in the coming weeks as the Bruins try to right the ship.
This Slump Might Be Good For the Bruins
Boston was chosen by many to make the playoffs but not be the dominant team they were last season. The team is still flawed and could use a forward and some more physicality on defense. But with the great start, the team might have thought they were better than they are. This dose of reality might force General Manager Don Sweeney to make a move or two to bolster the roster, and that’s a good thing.
