The Boston Bruins are in a tough spot after losing 2-1 to the Toronto Maple Leafs, forcing a Game 7 in their first-round series. Coach Jim Montgomery didn’t hold back when discussing the team’s performance, specifically calling out star forward David Pastrnak for needing to step up.
Montgomery emphasized the importance of top players delivering during crucial moments in the playoffs. While he praised the team’s effort, he singled out Pastrnak, saying he needed to make big plays when it mattered most. Pastrnak has had a decent postseason with two goals and four points, but Montgomery believes he can do more to help the team succeed.
The Bruins struggled right from the start in Game 6, with the Maple Leafs dominating the first period and outshooting them 12-1. Despite improving as the game went on, Boston couldn’t overcome Toronto’s early lead. Pastrnak acknowledged the slow start and emphasized the need to perform better right from the beginning.
Toronto capitalized on Boston’s sluggish start, with William Nylander scoring late in the second period to give the Maple Leafs the lead. Nylander added another goal in the third period, leaving the Bruins playing catch-up. While Boston managed to score a goal in the final seconds, it wasn’t enough to change the outcome.
Marchand echoed Montgomery’s sentiments, admitting that the Bruins need to match Toronto’s intensity from the opening faceoff. He acknowledged the Maple Leafs’ strong start in recent games and emphasized the importance of Boston responding better to their opponent’s early pressure.
This isn’t the first time the Bruins have faced adversity in the playoffs. Last season, they squandered a 3-1 series lead against the Florida Panthers in the first round, highlighting their tendency to struggle in crucial moments. Montgomery stressed the need for the team to address their slow starts and regain momentum early in games.
Despite the disappointing loss, Montgomery remains focused on the present and preparing for Game 7. He emphasized the team’s dissatisfaction with their performance and their determination to bounce back in the next game.
As the Bruins head into a decisive Game 7, they’ll need to heed Montgomery’s call for improved performance from their top players and a stronger start right from the opening puck drop. The team’s ability to respond to adversity and rise to the occasion will ultimately determine their fate in the playoffs.
