Bruins 1, Lightning 0

Surreal (adjective): Having the disorienting, hallucinatory quality of a dream; unreal; fantastic.

When the puck grazed against the blade of Nathan Horton's stick, and softly slid into the net, all the theories, all the "what-ifs" came into focus as reality. What I mean is, after years of wondering what it would be like to watch the Bruins in the Stanley Cup Finals, it's all become real. And the reality of it is so surreal.

Up until that goal, my nerves were frayed and tattered. There seemed to be some invisible force working against the Bruins. Brad Marchand came within millimeters here and there of a hat-trick in the 3rd period. The Bruins were playing the better game, but pucks weren't going in. They weren't even getting to the net.

Then the puck went in. It wasn't a magnificent play. It was just smart. Smart entry by the Bruins against Tampa's 1-3-1. Ference waited until he was close to center-ice and challenged by Tampa's frontman in the 1-3-1. Both Krejci and Horton were on the far-side boards. This was a 2-on-1 for the Bruins caused by the shape Tampa's formation. Two men attacking the area guarded by one. Krejci entered the zone with the puck, and was engaged by the final man or "strong safety" of the 1-3-1. As Krejci carried straight toward the corner, Horton cut inward to the net. Through the slimmest of lanes, Krejci passed to Horton.

It wasn't ingenious. It wasn't that tricky. It was smart. It was executed well. And it took advantage of minor mistakes made by Tampa's defenders. Horton was allowed to get position, Krejci was allowed entry without any harassment. In short, the Bruins couldn't have done better on the play, the Lightning could have done slightly better. And that's hockey. The difference between two teams in a 7 game series can be the fraction of a second that Krejci's pass window was open.

And for the next 7 and a half minutes, I was supremely confident. The game was over. If I were Red Auerbach, I would've lit a cigar. I was more confident in that 1-0 lead than I've ever been with any 3 goal lead the Bruins have ever had. After going up, they played even better. They kept attacking, kept fore-checking. They valued possession of the puck, made Tampa Bay fight to win it back, made the Lightning carry it 200 feet each time. It was a thing of beauty.

None of the Bruins had amazing individual nights. And that's why I enjoyed their effort so much. Thomas didn't have to stand on his head. Chara didn't have to throw people around all night. Seguin didn't need to break anyone's ankles. Everyone did their job. Everyone played well. Horton wound up with the goal, Krejci and Ference with the assists, and Thomas with a shutout, but no superhuman individual feats were necessary to win. The whole team showed up, guys like Peverley, Ference, and McQuaid were just as important as Krejci, Chara, and Seidenberg.

And it was also nice that the refs didn't call any penalties. Keeping the game 5-on-5 was a huge edge for the Bruins.

And now, for the 18th time, the Bruins are in the Stanley Cup finals. It's surreal how real this dream feels.

Game 1 Wednesday night in Vancouver.

-The Commodore

Bruins 2, Lightning 0

In Game 2, the Bruins beat the Lightning at their own game. It was wide open, up and down, fast-paced hockey played in the middle areas of the ice. Game 3 was played against the boards. It was played from zone to zone, a little slower, a lot tougher. This is the type of game the Bruins are built to win. Game 2 was a toss-up, even a loss, if not for Seguin. But last night's game had a black and gold stamp all over it.

The B's played their game well in all three zones. They cycled the puck in the offensive zone, didn't take shots unless they had a shooting lane (the Lightning only blocked 9 shots). They were patient. They kept the puck near the boards where they'd have the advantage. So even when Tampa won the puck back, they had to expend all their energy just to get it. Most importantly, the B's extended their posessions.

A defensive miscue resulted in Krejci's goal in the 1st. Victor Hedman got a bit too eager to help his teammate against Lucic. Krejci wisely stayed in the slot and collected the easy goal. It was also a hyper-aware pass from Lucic.

The second goal was thanks to guys like Kelly and Seguin keeping the puck from squirting out of the zone. Ference got the goal, but it was a team effort by all 5 skaters on the ice.

In the neutral zone, they slowed Tampa down just enough to prevent breakaways from turning deadly. What really helped was not turning the puck over in dangerous spots. The Bruins got the puck in deep to the offensive zone, and even when Tampa collected it, the B's were able to fill the neutral zone with bodies to slow down the Lightning just enough.

And the Bruins controlled the defensive zone. Thomas didn't have to face many second chance shots because defensemen pounced on loose pucks. There were some heart-pounding moments, but considering how good Tampa is, the Bruins did one hell of a good job in their own zone.

The return of Bergeron was huge. He won over 64% of his faceoffs, which mostly came against faceoff expert Lecavalier. And he was his excellent defensive self. He didn't look or play any differently.

Ference and Boychuk continue to play well, supporting Chara and Seidenberg very nicely. The first line is clicking. Krejci's goal was his 4th game-winner of the playoffs, tying Cam Neely's Bruins' playoff record. Seguin didn't have breakaway chances, but he did the little things. His assist on Ference's goal was simple fundamental hockey: keeping a play alive in the offensive zone, continuing the cycle.

The Power Play struggled with entry. And the Bruins were offsides too often. That's about all there is to gripe about from this game. All and all, it played out exactly as you'd draw it up.

Game 3 Saturday afternoon on NBC.

-The Commodore

PS: What is up with Guy Boucher's scar? I did some legitimate research and couldn't find an answer. Boucher says it's not hockey related, but also said he hasn't even told his family where it's from. I don't like to make fun of people for scars and/or deformities, but when they keep the mystery alive by being all shifty about it, it peaks my curiosity. My guess is that it was a second mouth that's been sewn shut.

Ference To Be Suspended? (UPDATED)

"Defenseman Andrew Ference of the Boston Bruins could face supplemental discipline from the NHL following contact with Montreal Canadiens forward Jeff Halpern during Wednesday's Game 7. Nick Kypreos of Rogers Sportsnet:

"Word out of beantown is Bruins Ference blindside hit on Canadiens Halpern will lead to a suspension. NHL hearing is scheduled for Thurs."

The disciplinary hearing via phone is set for 11am. And although Bob McKenzie doesn't like the hit, the TSN analyst concedes the Bruins d-man does have an argument:

"Would imagine Ference's defence will be he never saw Halpern. Hearing doesn't guarantee suspension but league obviously didn't like it (ESPN)."

I go back and forth on this. I have watched the hit a couple times and I think I've decided he went to do it, but I also think Halpern embellished the shit out of the hit. I mean he acted like he got hit by freight train, and yet was on the ice only a couple mins later. I don't think Ference should be suspended, but I do think he should get yet another fine (the first one for flipping off the Habs' fans). I could also see him getting 1 game, because of his general douchebaggery during the series.

***UPDATE***

"Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli told reporters Thursday that defenseman Andrew Ference will not be suspended for his collision with Canadiens forward Jeff Halpern in the third period of Boston's 4-3 overtime win over Montreal Wednesday (WEEI)."

Good.

Why Not?

Why not watch Andrew Ference flip off Montreal fans after scoring?

Bruins 5, Canadiens 4 (OT)

The Bruins spent the week in Lake Placid, NY. Then came out placidly last night, taking 30 minutes to properly wake up. During that time, Montreal unleashed 30 shots against Thomas and took a 3-1 lead. In the second half of the game, they beat Montreal 4-1. It was far from pretty. It was quite painful at times. But you had to love the ending.

I was fed up with Ryder being in the lineup. He hadn't contributed anything and I wanted Seguin to get a chance. I like being wrong sometimes. Ryder scored twice. His breakaway goal in the 2nd might have been more important than his OT winner, because it kept Montreal from pulling too far away.

For both his goals, Ryder was beautifully set-up by his teammates. Kaberle made himself useful and found Ryder with a zone stretching pass to trigger his breakaway. And linemates Chris Kelly and Rich Peverley ground out the possession that resulted in Ryder's second score.

Kelly now has 2 goals, 2 assists, and is +3 in this series. He's the type of guy that randomly has a huge impact in the playoffs. He's accustomed to physical play, he's an adept penalty killer, and he's always involved.

But give Ryder credit for the quality of his shots. His first goal was a snipe over Price's glovehand. His second shot came after he hesitated a fraction of a second. Price stretched his legs wide to get to the post, opening up the hole that Ryder shot through.

Bergeron continues to be the best Bruins' skater in this series. 5 points so far. Another great night in Game 4.

Andrew Ference is the type of guy who can decide a series for you. He can be that bad, and be that good. We've seen him make boneheaded mistakes, and brilliant plays. From shift to shift, the Bruins' fortunes have turned based on what guys like him have done. Last night he took a few hits to move the puck, then wound up in the high slot, and blasted a bullet past Price.

The PK unit may have allowed a goal, but they were excellent in their one kill of the game. Montreal had a golden opportunity to win it late in regulation, thanks to an iffy interference call on Seidenberg. But the PK was intelligently aggressive. Chris Kelly again having an impact.

I'm still waiting for the first line to show up. Lucic, Krejci, and Horton have combined for 2 goals, 0 assists, and are each -2 in this series. Last night, Krejci deked himself out of an unbelievable scoring chance. It was actually three chances in one play, and he messed up all of them. He could have one-timed at a half-empty net, instead he curled toward the crease. He could have forehanded a shot between Price's widely stretched legs, instead he went to the backhand. He could've backhanded a shot over Price's legpads, instead he lost control of the puck.

Then there's Lucic, who looked half-dead on most his shifts. When he did skate, he was electrifying. But for the most part he's still drifting around, barely noticeable on the ice. He played about 17 minutes last night. Do you believe that? How often did you notice he was out there?

So now it's a best-of-three series. The B's need to protect their house. They need to do something on the Power Play. The first line needs to score, or at least grind out good possessions. Guys like Bergeron and Kelly need to continue their good play. And Chara needs to bring his physical game. It doesn't get easier from here.

Game 5 Saturday night in Boston.

-The Commodore

Bruins Re-Sign Ference

Meh.

That's all I can really say. The Bruins and Ference agreed to a 3 year extension worth $6.75 million, or $2.25 million a year. Ference is constantly plagued by various injuries and hasn't played more than 60 games since the 05-06 season. He'll likely require off-season surgery for a groin injury that's sidelined him most recently.

When healthy, he's a respectable 4th or 5th defenseman, adding depth at the blue-line. But he's not an offensive threat. He's 5' 10" and 189 pounds, so even though he's physical, he's hardly dominating. And he's 31 years old.

So this deal perplexes me a bit. I think the Bruins could get someone with more reliable health for the same amount of money. Because even when he's healthy, he's far from great.

I wouldn't be surprised if this is a sign that the Bruins intend to shake up their defensemen in the off-season. Seidenberg is an unrestricted free agent, Stuart and Boychuk are restricted free agents (Stuart makes $1.3 million this season, Boychuk $500k, both will likely merit more money). They might try to trade Wideman (please, God), and don't be shocked if they move Chara ($7.5M cap number), or at least try to.

As I look at this more and more, I don't like it. You can get better AND healthier defensemen for this amount of money.

-The Commodore

Andrew Ference Injury Update

"The Bruins took another hit when it was announced yesterday that defenseman Andrew Ference, who was injured in the opening minute of the second period Tuesday in Ottawa, will miss six weeks with a groin injury (Boston.com)."

Fucking Bruins just can't stay healthy. You really can't be surprised that Ference went down as he missing 35 games with a groin injury and a fractured leg last season, and 23 games in the 2007-08 season with injuries to his core, knee, and leg. Anyways, this could make things tough on the Bruins with Stuart already on the shelf. The Bruins depth has definitely been tested all season, and my hope is that come playoff time the Bruins will have all their injuries for the season out of the way...

Bruins Locker Room Hates Andrew Ference?

"Andrew Ference wasn't so forthcoming about the firing of NHLPA boss Paul Kelly, which may have caused a rift between him and his teammates. Ference didn't want to be reconsidered to be the player rep again this year, letting Mark Stuart run unopposed, the Boston Globe reports (ESPN)."

The firing of Paul Kelly has pissed off a lot of people. There are a lot of shady things that went on around the firing (like a midnight vote to get rid of him). Anyways, I don't think this will affect much since Ference stepped down. In his eyes he is probably just happy he doesn't have to deal with that shit anymore...

Andrew Ference Has Surgery

It seems like every Bruins player has been under the knife, but at least there is good news all around with Ference....

"Andrew Ference, who had surgery today for a hernia and groin injury, is expected to start the 2009-'10 season on time in October. The club's official release today made note that Ference would miss 4-6 weeks, not making clear if that meant time missed from his summer training regimen or from the start of the season. However, a team spokesperson just now has clarified that the 4-6 weeks pertains to his off-season training, which he should be able to resume by approximately the middle of July. According to the spokesperson, that should give the veteran ample time to start the regular season on time (Boston.com).

That is great news for the Bruins, as they will already be without Krecji and Kessel (if he signs) for the beginning of the season, as each of those guys are also coming off surgeries of thier own. If Boston can bring everyone back, and get them healthy they should be on top of the NHL standings once again next season.

Even More Bruins Injuries

I wrote earlier that Kessel was going to need surgery, well apparently he is not the only one. Krejci will have hip surgery next month. He is not expected to be ready for the start of training camp. Andrew Ference will undergo groin surgery next month, and forward Chuck Kobasew confirmed he played against the Canes with two broken ribs. The Bruins cover their injuries up so much you never know how bad these injuries were. Krecji's injury by far seems like the most serious. Still he should be able to recover and is only 23 years old. I wonder if his injury will affect Krecji as he is a restricted free agent. Hopefully it will slow down other teams from trying to steal him....

Andrew Ference Will Not Play Tonight

"Claude Julien confirmed that Andrew Ference will not play tonight. Shane Hnidy, a healthy scratch for the first three games, will be making his series debut tonight (Boston.com)."

I have not read an injury report on this. it could be that Julien just wants the much more physical Hnidy out there tonight, which I would agree with. The Bruins need to be more physical with Carolina, and also improve their passing. If we find out more on why Ference is benched we will let you know..

Andrew Ference Injury Update

"All signs point to Andrew Ference returning to the lineup for tomorrow's Game 1. Ference breezed through practice today without limitations and should be ready to go. "We want him to come in at 100 percent," Claude Julien said. "Nothing less. He seems pretty good. So if he's 100 percent tomorrow, he's going to be in." Steve Montador and Shane Hnidy would most likely battle for the final spot on defense (Boston.com)."

The Bruins just get deeper. It is too bad though that either Montador or Hnidy will have to sit. i really like the way both those guys have been playing, but what can you do? As Rob stated earlier the Bruins are 4-0 against Carolina this season, but the Hurricanes do seem to have some magic. Hopefully the Bruins aren't rusty and crush Carolina tomorrow at the Garden.

Bruins 5 Senators 3

Boston really needed a win and they got it for the 4th time this season against the Ottawa Senators. The game looked to be over before it even started as the Bruins were up 3-0 ten mins into the game. Yet, Ottawa refused to go down easy, and battled back. In the end the Bruins were able to stay on top. Still, I am not sure how I should take this game. Part of me says it might be the game that gets them back on track. The other part of me still thinks they are showing a lot of alarming holes in their game.

The Good:
A win is a win, and the Bruins are now up by 6 points over New Jersey for first place in the Eastern Conference with only 13 games left in the season. Kessel was amazing in this game. He was all over the ice, and just looked like a man on a mission. He scored two goals (1 was an open net), and looked like the guy who was on pace to score 50 goals earlier in the season. Savard also looked great adding two assists. Another guy I am gaining more and more respect for with each passing game is Chuck Kobasew. He crashes the net every time down the ice, and his style of play I think will be great for the Bruins as they enter the playoffs.

The Bad:
Boston is still trying to be too fancy. A lot of times they try to go around the defense instead of just playing dump and chase. Guys like Ryder, Recchi, ect, should be battling on the boards. Boston seems to have lost some of their toughness when it comes to powering into the offensive zone. The Bruins also need to learn how to finish a game. It seems like when they have a lead they sit back a little bit, and let a team back in. In short, if you do that during the playoffs you are not going to make it out of the first round. Also, Ference needs to step up his game. He was horrible last night, and it did not surprise me at all when I looked at the stat sheet after the game that he was out there for all 3 Ottawa goals.

In the end you have to take the good with the bad. Boston needs to build on this, and over the next 13 games get ready for the playoffs. Right now with the way they are playing they will not make it very far, but they do have the talent to do very well. Hopefully Julien and Co., can get them back to the way they were playing earlier in the season.

Lightning 4 Bruins 3

The slide continued yesterday for the Bruins, as they lost to the Tampa Bay Lightning 4-3. The sad thing is the Bruins out played Tampa in this game. Boston had 43 shots on goal, but were only able to score 3 times, while Tampa had 18 shots, but got 4 past Manny Fernandez. Right now, the Bruins need someone to step up and be able to finish a play. Kessel is just getting stuffed, though it looks like he is getting his chances. Fans will continue clamoring for a trade, but I am not so sure if that is the answer, because it's not like the Bruins aren't getting their chances, and I think they just might be a bit unlucky.

Boston's goals came from Chara, Ference, and Kessel. The game was tied till Vaclav Prospal beat Manny Fernandez on a power play with 1:33 left to lift the Lightning past Bruins. Tampa had to be pumped since they have had a terrible year, and now have beat the #1 team in the East. Boston needs to find a way to convert on all their shots. Last game the Bruins had 41 shots, and didn't score at all. That means that have had 84 shots in the last 2 games with only 3 goals to show for it. Manny had a bad game, but with all those chances the Bruins should have been able to still win.

Bruins Injury Updates

- Aaron Ward will be out for about a week, as the Bruins injured players list continues to grow. Matt Lashoff will take his place.

- Patrice Bergeron skated for the 4th straight day today, as he battles back from his concussion. No word on a timetable for his return, but at least he is skating.

- Andrew Ference skated with Bergeron and seems to be nearing a return. I would expect him to be back at some point during the next 2 weeks.

- Milan Lucic practiced today, but was not able to do contact drill. The good news is that he is traveling with the team, and may be able to play the game after next against Washington.

- Manny Fernandez will be available tomorrow after taking a couple days off to let his back recover from spasms. He had a full day of practice and is good to go.

-BMack

Penguins 2 Bruins 4

The Bruins are seemingly unstoppable after collecting their 10th straight win, with a 4-2 victory over the Penguins. Manny Fernandez made 30 saves to remain perfect at home (9-0-0), and it just doesn't seem to matter who is on the ice for the Bruins, since they have had to deal with so many injuries, yet nothing seems to slow them down.

David Krejci, P.J. Axelsson, Milan Lucic and Marc Savard scored for Boston. Lucic goal I think was the biggest as it made the score 3-1 and really put the game out of reach. The Bruins are undefeated when up by 2 goals heading into the 3rd period. Even though the Penguins made it interesting in the 3rd, the Bruins defense is just too good to really try to mount any kind of comeback.

The Bruins defense may be improving even more as Andrew Ference should be back within the next two weeks from a broken tibia. The Bruins next game is Saturday at 1pm vs. Buffalo.

-BMack