continued to be point-per-game-or-better players in his absence, the support scoring from second-line centre David Krejci and winger Jake DeBrusk was a significant factor in keeping the train chugging.
Without Pastrnak, Krejci had six goals and 16 points and DeBrusk eight goals and 15 points in 12 and 10 games, respectively. The fact Krejci, at 32, is having one of the best offensive seasons of his career has been a boon to the Bruins. Coming off a 44-point season , that Krejci has managed to get back up over 70 points for just the second time – matching a career-high 73 points from 2008-09 – has breathed new life into Boston’s support scoring.
It’s worth pointing out that when Krejci is contributing to the offence, the Bruins have major playoff success. He recorded eight points in last year’s series win over Toronto and then was limited to two points against Tampa Bay in a five-game loss. In 2017, he was shutout in just three games as Boston was eliminated in Round 1. In their two Stanley Cup Final appearances back in 2011 and 2013, Krejci was Boston’s leading scorer.
If Krejci is rolling, linemate DeBrusk likely will be as well. DeBrusk also adds that heavy hockey element that many believe will be an issue come playoff time for Toronto. Boston is tough enough to beat with just the one line, but if this second unit is causing a physical hassle to the Leafscontributing on offence it calls into question Toronto’s perceived advantage at forward. Since the trade deadline, the Bruins average more goals per game than the Leafs.
RoryBoylen Bruins in 5.. unfort for Leaf fans
RoryBoylen Who besides you idiots in the Toronto media thinks this is the best recent rivalry. Just because the Leafs lose to Boston all the time does not make it a rivalry.
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