The Bruins went in to Philadelphia with a lineup riddled with injuries and jet lag. Well maybe not jet lag, but they certainly weren't fresh after a hard-fought 3-2 win over Nashville on Wednesday and a flight down to Philly. Despite all this, they put in a solid effort, and nearly won 2 points.
This was the first time all season that the B's put together two respectable games in a row. If not for a touch of bad luck, they would've also had their first 2 game win streak of the season.
Two of Philly's goals were a bit fortunate. Although most hockey goals are lucky bounces that come after a series of good plays (or defensive mistakes). Philly's first score came off Mark Stuart, easily beating Tuuka Rask. Stuart was involved in the 2nd Flyer goal, too. He was hit by Steve Begin's stick in the face, went down in the slot, and Philly took full advantage.
Rask might be the best backup goalie in the NHL. He's got the skill-set, and he plays smart. He might have some regrets about Philly's 3rd goal, but he also made big positional stops on Flyer breakouts.
Derek Morris finally earned my unhate. I still don't like him, but I don't hate him. But he is on probation. He had a nice power play goal (set-up by beautiful work from Zdeno Chara) and an assist on Begin's game-tying goal.
Byron Bitz, Steve Begin, Patrice Bergeron and David Krejci were all in top form.
I was a bit confused about the shootout lineup Julien put out there. Sturm, Ryder and Krejci would be my first choices. But I'll also give credit to Ray Emery, who made some game saving stops in regulation and the shootout.
Bruins host the Senators Saturday night.
Source:
ESPN.com
Photo Credit:
AP Photo/Michael Perez
