Bruins Postgame: Bruins Keep Hopes Alive with 2-1 Win Over Panthers

Cue the Bee Gees, because the Boston Bruins are ‘Staying Alive! Staying Alive!’ after their 2-1 victory over the Florida Panthers in Game 5 on Tuesday night in Florida.

 

 

The Bruins will host the Panthers in Game 6 on Friday night, aiming to force a Game 7 back in Florida on Sunday.

 

 

Charlie McAvoy’s goal at 10:25, upheld after a goaltender interference challenge from the Panthers, turned out to be the game-winner. McAvoy also assisted on Morgan Geekie’s goal that gave the Bruins an early lead 4:49 into the first period. Sam Reinhart tied the game for the Panthers 6:23 into the second period before McAvoy’s decisive goal in the final period.

 

 

Bruins goalie Jeremy Swayman was outstanding, making 28 saves, while Panthers goalie Sergei Bobrovsky kept his team competitive with 26 stops.

 

 

Here’s your Boston Hockey Now Bruins Postgame:

 

 

CLUTCH: Fans and media have been puzzled by defenseman Charlie McAvoy’s uncharacteristic play, marked by turnovers and poor positioning. However, in Game 5, McAvoy responded to criticism, including from NESN’s Andy Brickley on The Eye Test Podcast, by playing with poise and assertiveness. His game-winning goal showcased his improved performance.

 

 

McAvoy finished with a goal and an assist, six shots, three hits, and four blocked shots, marking his best game in the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

 

 

DOGHOUSE: Despite their overall strong effort, the Bruins have struggled to extend their lead in recent games. They failed to capitalize on chances to pull away in Game 4, missing opportunities and managing just two shots in the third period. This pattern continued in Game 5, as they missed several chances to build on their 2-0 and 2-1 leads.

 

 

BANGER: Charlie Coyle led all players with eight hits. The 6-foot-3, 218-pound center also assisted on McAvoy’s game-winning goal and blocked a shot.

 

 

UNSUNG HERO: Jeremy Swayman, often either the Clutch or Unsung Hero, was pivotal again with 28 saves. He particularly stood out in the final moments, stopping Panthers’ top scorer Sam Reinhart with just eight seconds left in regulation.