Bruins Trump Habs: How Sweep It Is!

For the first time since 1999, the Boston Bruins advance into the second round of the playoffs—in dominant fashion nonetheless—defeating the Montreal Canadiens tonight, 4-1.

Michael Ryder and David Krejci had played together on the second line all season long, and this series truly showcased their chemistry. Ryder led all Bruins players in points with seven (4-3) in the four games against his former club, while posting a plus-five, and 11 shots on goal.

Krejci led the way in plus-minus with a plus-six, while adding five points (2-3), and 10 shots on goal.

Stopping 105 of 111 shots on net, goaltender Tim Thomas was nothing short of amazing—even picking up an assist this series. The 35 year old picked up exactly where he left off in the regular season; continuing his Vezina-like dominance between the pipes.

The Bruins were out-hit by the Habs 75-115, but the Black and Gold used this to their advantage. Aside from a rare fight (first ever) from Patrice Bergeron, and a game misconduct/one game suspension by Milan Lucic in game two, the Bruins kept their composure, and took advantage of the power play opportunities.

The special teams for Boston went 100 percent on the penalty kill, shutting down the Canadiens power play in all eight opportunities. The Bruins power play: 4-16.

The Bruins were running on all cylinders against the eighth seed Canadiens. Only two players (Yelle, Axelsson) were on the negative side of the plus-minus, and only two other players went without a point (Ward, Wheeler). Sorry, Matt Hunwick went scoreless also, but he obviously gets a pass here.

From top to bottom—offense, defense, goaltending, and coaching staff; there were virtually no holes in this team. The Bruins put the “history” aside this time around, and handed a broom to the Canadiens for their 100th birthday.

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Check outRangers-Examiner" target="_blank"> Rob Christino and keep up-to-date with the Bruins possible second-round opponents, New York Rangers.

Seventh seed New York Rangers win—up 3-1 against the Caps

Seven of the Bruins 17 goals this series happened within the final three minutes of a period.

This was the first time since 1994 that the Bruins had beaten the Canadiens in the playoffs.

The Bruins have now gone 9-0-1 this season versus the Canadiens.

Phil Kessel: 4 goals, 2 assists, +2, 12 SOG
Chuck Kobasew: 2 goals, 1 assist, +1, 11 SOG
Zdeno Chara: 1 goal (PP), 1 assist, +2, 12 SOG
Marc Savard: 2 goals (PP), 3 assists, even, 9 SOG
Tim Thomas: 4-0, 1.50 GAA, .946 SV%, 1 assist