Bleacher Report - Articles by Mark Marino

Bruins-Coyotes: Preview

Mark Marino — Sat, 17 Oct 2009 13:29:43 -0400

Fresh off a 3-0 victory last night in Dallas, the Bruins got back to .500, evening their record now to 3-3-0.

Tim Thomas made 27 saves for his 13th career shutout, and Marc Savard lit the lamp twice, once on the power play, and six shots on goal.

"Everything just seemed to be going in the right direction tonight," said Bruins head coach Claude Julien after the game.

The Bruins, after a dismal 4-of-29 on the PP in the previous five games, went 1-1 with the man-advantage last night and killed the all three penalties (8-of-26 in the prior five contests)

Who's hot:

Marc Savard. No. 91 now has seven points (4-3=7) in the first six games for the Bruins. His four goals leads all Boston skaters thus far, as does his 20 shots on goal. He continues to be the best offensive player on the team, while contributing not only on the power play, but the penalty kill as well.

Who's not:

In last night's game, the Bruins got great production from just about every player. Prior to the game, however, Boston's special teams and goaltending were in question.

The B's went 1-1 on the PP and killed all six minutes in three penalty kills; while Tim Thomas made 27 saves for his first shutout of the season.

If there was one weak spot, though, I'd have to say during the middle of the second period when there was an onslaught of Stars in the Bruins zone.

The Bruins got off to a quick start (despite the Bergeron minor penalty 00:18 into the first) but started to show signs of playing back on their heels.

If the B's can play a full 60 minutes in the way that the Bruins are capable of, this is going to be a very very tough team to beat.

Who to watch for:

Tim Thomas/goaltending : Even with quick back-to-back away games, I'd say Thomas gets the nod again in Phoenix. There was a quiet message sent to the reigning Vezina Trophy winner when Julien went with back-up goaltender, Tuukka Rask, in Boston last week.

Thomas bounced back and pitched a shutout against the Stars and was one of the two best players for Boston last night. In fact, he was the best player while the B's were short-handed last night as well.

What's the saying...'Your PK is only as good as your goaltending?' Or, something like that. Nonetheless, case in point. Look for the momentum to carry over in Arizona.

Johnny Boychuk: With Dennis Wideman out again, No. 55 logged over 17 minutes of ice time again in back-to-back games, with four shots on goal (five total) and two hits (six total).

Milan Lucic: After being "moved down" to the second line with David Krejci and Blake Wheeler, Lucic looked like a new man in last night's game.

Although left off the score sheet, Lucic landed five hits and one shot on net. But it was the non-stats that stood out to me. His forechecking was noticably better, and he looked faster last night than I have ever seen.

What to watch for:

Momentum : With a dominating road win last night (their first road game), the Bruins must be riding high as they head to Arizona. I would anticipate another fast start; especially on the offense and between the pipes.

Forechecking: It was noticeably better last night. It caused a few Stars' turnovers last night and a couple of scoring opportunities for the B's. Look for it to be fairly aggressive again tonight on the forecheck.

Penalties: The Bruins need to stay out of the penalty box. Granted they only had three minor penalties last night, and successfully killed them all, they were still short handed more than on the power play. That cannot continue. The Bruins special teams still isn't there yet, regardless of what we saw last night.

Unsung/Under the radar player to watch:

Blake Wheeler: No. 26 has a scoring line of 2-1=3 through the first six games this year with 11 shots on goal, but with the presence of Lucic on his line now makes it even better.

The two definitely had some nice chemistry in last night's victory. The bulked-up Wheeler was definitely using his size to his advantage by laying three hits last night; while Lucic had five.

The two big boys now open up the ice a whole lot more, allowing more room for Krejci to do his thing with the puck and set scoring chances up.

Line combos & D pairings:

Michael Ryder—Marc Savard—Marco Sturm
Milan Lucic—David Krejci—Blake Wheeler
Chuck Kobasew—Patrice Bergeron—Mark Recchi
Shawn Thornton—Steve Begin—Byron Bitz

Zdeno Chara—Derek Morris
Andrew Ference—Mark Stuart
Matt Hunwick—Johnny Boychuk

Injury Report:

Dennis Wideman : upper body injury (shoulder)

This article was originally published on Examiner.com . To read the entire article, including the Phoenix Coyotes take, click here.

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Bruins vs. Stars Preview

Mark Marino — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 00:31:30 -0400

The Boston Bruins finished their five game home-stand with a mere 2-3-0 record to open the season. Tonight, they are in Dallas to take on the 2-0-3, Pacific Division, Dallas Stars.

The last time these two teams met was back on Nov. 1, 2008 when the Bruins hosted the Stars in a 5-1 victory. However, the win was just a small portion of that game.

It was probably the most exciting and action-packed game of the Bruins' 2008-09 season. A game that had a plethora of fisticuffs—over 150 penalty minutes, and over 100 of those PIM in the third period alone. To take a trip down memory lane, check out the video here .

Will the bad blood carry over into tonight's game? Even without Sean Avery, I'd say, yes. The Stars still have antagonist, Steve Ott, who is sure to have a target on his No. 29 sweater.

Away Team: Boston Bruins (2-3-0)

Who's hot?

No one player really sticks out: However, the fourth line of Byron Bitz, Steve Begin, and Shawn Thornton continue to impress. The trio have been contributing with their heavy-hitting, and as an added bonus, their offense with six points, 26 shots on goal, and a plus three rating combined. Marc Savard is also continuing his point-per-game average with two goals and three assists and 14 shots on net through the first five games, and with each passing game, David Krejci is looking better and better.

Who's not?

This is going to sound like a broken record from the Islanders-Saturday-night-game-preview" target="_blank">New York Islanders preview , but the Bruins special teams. For one, Boston's power play continues to struggle—and that's putting it nicely. Four goals on 29 opportunities with the man advantage. That's 13.8%, landing them 25th overall in the NHL. The B's have also allowed two short handed goals.

The penalty kill has been just as bad, allowing eight goals on 26 chances for the opposing team. That, also, ranks the Black and Gold 25th in the league.

Who to watch for:

Johnny Boychuk. With Dennis Wideman out with an upper body injury, the 2008-09 AHL Eddie Shore winner logged over 17 minutes of ice time in the Bruins 4-3 loss to the Colorado Avalanche on Monday afternoon.

The 25-year-old also finished the game with a plus one, one shot on goal, and four hits. It's an unfortunate injury to Wideman, but a blessing in disguise for the Bruins fans who haven't seen, or heard, much of the blue-liner. It's only been one game, but he was clearly the best defenseman dressed in black last Monday. His best assets are his shots from the point, and his 6'2" 225 lb. frame—which he uses to his advantage by crushing opponents down low in the corners. Making a full-time spot on the roster for this kid is reaching a necessity.

What to watch for:

New line combinations: This week during practice, coach Claude Julien shuffled the lines up a bit and put Michael Ryder on the first line with Marc Savard and Marco Sturm. While Milan Lucic was moved down to the second line with Blake Wheeler and David Krejci. Also, I use that term "moved down" ever-so-lightly. Whenever you get "moved down" to a line with Krejci as your new center, how bad can that really be?

Playing a full 60-minutes: This is something that the Bruins have been harping on since last season—and it is clearly an issue this season as well. Look for the Bruins to start, and finish, the game with a bit of aggressiveness, and more physical play.

A better "team": For the past two seasons, Julien has taken the Bruins up to Stowe, VT, in a team-bonding trip during the preseason trainings camps. Not this year. With the 2010 Winter Olympics in store for NHL stars, the opening of the season has been early and the games have been crammed in. So I think this road trip—to Dallas and Phoenix—will help the team bond. No more pressures from the media and fans here in Boston; no more going home to their family and friends; and no more monotonous trips to Ristuccia Arena for practices. Now's the time where the Bruins really become accustomed to one another.

Unsung/Under the radar player to watch:

Again, Johnny Boychuk (see above.) My eyes will be glued to No. 55 when he's on the ice tonight. He's played on the power play and penalty kill, and has been paired-up with Matt Hunwick during regular time on the ice.

Line combos & D pairings:

Michael Ryder—Marc Savard—Marco Sturm
Milan Lucic—David Krejci—Blake Wheeler
Chuck Kobasew—Patrice Bergeron—Mark Recchi
Shawn Thornton—Steve Begin—Byron Bitz
Zdeno Chara—Derek Morris
Andrew Ference—Mark Stuart
Matt Hunwick—Johnny Boychuk

Injury Report:

Dennis Wideman: Upper body injury. Did not make the road trip to Dallas, nor will he for the game in Phoenix on Saturday night.

This article was original published on Examiner.com by Mark Marino

For the rest of the Stars/Bruins preview, click here

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Coach Claude Julien Wins Jack Adams Award

Mark Marino — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 21:20:52 -0400

Coach Claude Julien was presented with his first Jack Adams Award tonight as the NHL's coach recongnized "to have contributed the most to his team's success."

Last month, Julien was also named the Boston-Bruins-Examiner%7Ey2009m5d19-Boston-Bruins-Claude-Julien-named-Sporting-News-NHL-Coach-of-the-Year" target="_blank">Sporting News 2009 Coach of the Year to add to his resume.

Julien was hired June 19, 2007 as Head Coach of the Black and Gold. Thus far, Julien has compiled a regular season record of 94-48-22, while making playoff appearances in each of the two.

If "Defense-First" is Claude's motto, well, the proof is in the pudding.

Under the tutelage of Julien's predecessor, Dave Lewis, the 2006-07 Bruins ranked 29th in the NHL in plus-minus, with a minus-65 rating.

The following two years, with Julien behind the bench, the Bruins have improved their all-important team plus-minus category:

2007-08: Ranked 14th in the NHL with a plus-6

2008-09: Ranked 1st in the NHL with plus-60 . Chicago Blackhawks ranked second with a plus-45.

This article was originally published on Examiner.com

For more Boston Bruins news and Awards, click here.

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Tim Thomas Wins 2009 Vezina Trophy

Mark Marino — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 21:14:22 -0400

Tim Thomas was awarded the 2008-09 Vezina Trophy tonight at the Boston-Bruins-Examiner%7Ey2009m6d4-Boston-Bruins-NHL-Awards-Ceremony-in-twoweeks" target="_blank">NHL Awards ceremony in Las Vegas, NV.

Thomas led all NHL goaltenders in goals-against average (2.10), and won the Roger Crozier Saving Grace Award for the best save percentage in the NHL (.933) for the 116-point Boston Bruins.

Thomas, along with teammate Manny Fernandez, also won the William M. Jennings Trophy for the fewest total goals-against by team goaltenders.

In the 2009 postseason, Thomas started in all 11 games for the Black and Gold with a 7-4 record, 1.85 goals-against average, and a .935 save percentage.

The 35-year-old net-minder made his second All-Star appearance this season. With his spectacular play in net, Thomas was named the 2009 Sporting News NHL Goaltender of the Year.

Back in the first week of April, Thomas agreed to a four-year extension with Boston, good through the 2012-13 season—Well worth the price tag.

This article was originally published on Examiner.com

For more Boston Bruins news and other Awards, click here.

Dominik Hasek: The Greatest Goaltender of All-Time

Mark Marino — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 15:14:20 -0400

My cousin Tim and I grew up in the 80's as die-hard hockey fans and the Boston Bruins have always been our favorite team. We each laced-up the skates around the ages of five, and we're both fortunate enough to play the greatest game on earth for many years before succumbing to injuries.

Every Christmas Eve, our families would spend the afternoon and better part of the night at Tim's house in Medford, MA. While the adults were inside on each Dec. 24 holiday partaking in the Christmas festivities, Tim and I would be outside—rain or snow—playing street hockey.

Running around with Sherwood sticks with Graf hockey gloves on, we always pretended to be NHL players.

Aside from being Andy Moog, Cam Neely, and Bobby Orr of the Boston Bruins, the Buffalo Sabres were another team from the Adams Division that had a few players in which we grew fond of—Alexander Mogilny, Pat Lafontaine, and the greatest goalie in the world, Dominik Hasek.

On Apr. 9, 2009 the Boston Bruins defeated the Montreal Canadiens 5-4 in OT. We decided to sell our tickets (season ticket holders) to that game in order to save-up for the Eastern Conference playoffs that were scheduled to be played exactly one week later.

We got together at my house to watch the B's play their future first-round opponents and arch rivals on my new big-screen TV—had a few fermented beverages, and engaged in hours of hockey-talk.

One conversation in particular stemmed from an event that took place a few weeks prior. On Mar. 17, 2009 New Jersey Devils net-minder Martin Brodeur won his 552nd game—surpassing Patrick Roy, and becoming the all-time NHL leader in regular wins.

On a local sports radio station here in Boston a host of an afternoon show went on to say that Martin Brodeur is the greatest NHL goalie of all-time, and that, "Hasek doesn't breathe the same air as them (Brodeur and Roy)."

That was when the debate heightened, and the research began.

Born on Jan. 29, 1965 in Pardubice, Czechoslovakia, Dominik Hasek first played hockey at the age of six. Growing up through the Communist Era in his native Czechoslovak Socialist Republic, Hasek lived behind the Iron Curtain until his NHL debut in 1990. During this time—unable/unwilling to emigrate—Hasek started his illustrious Czech and Czechoslovak play.

At 16-years old, Hasek played in the top hockey league—the Czechoslovakia Extralgia—from 1981-90, for his hometown, HC Pardubice. He would play in his hometown for eight years, capturing two league titles, and winning numerous individual awards.

Czechoslovak & Czech Awards

Five time winner of the Czechoslovak & Czech Republic Golden Hockey Stick Award: Awarded to the top player of the Czechoslovak Elite league, and the top player of the Czech Republic, respectively. 1987, '89, '90, '97, '98
Five-time winner of the Czechoslovak First League Best Goaltender: 1986-90
Czech Hockey Player of the 20th Century

Continuing his incredible play in net, Hasek was a three-time Silver Medal winner at the 1982, '83, and '85 World Junior Hockey Championships—while being awarded WJC Best Goaltender in '82 Games.

Capturing four medals in the World Championships, Hasek was again awarded the Best Goaltender award in 1985 and '87.

Perhaps the most memorable moments in Hasek's career happened during the 1998 Olympic Winter games in Nagano, Japan. "The Dominator" led the Czech National team, allowing just six total goals, while being named the Olympic Games Best Goaltender.

NHL CAREER

The Chicago Blackhawks drafted Dominik Hasek with the 199th overall pick in the 10th round of the 1983 NHL Entry Draft

It wasn't until after the 1989 Velvet Revolution when Czechoslovakia opened its doors to immigration and overthrew the Communist government that Hasek made his way to the United States.

Hasek stayed in Chicago for his first two NHL seasons—eight years after he was drafted. He posted a 20-11-1 record with the IHL Indianapolis Ice, and also played the role of back-up to the Vezina, Calder Memorial, and William M. Jennings winner, Ed Belfour with the NHL Blackhawks.

Hasek watched the Blackhawks win the Presidents Cup during the 1990-91 season with a 49-23-8 record in the Norris Division. The following year Chicago headed to the Stanley Cup Finals, but were swept in four-straight by the Pittsburgh Penguins.

BUFFALO SABRES

The best years for Hasek were undoubtedly in Buffalo, where he played his next nine seasons. Hasek was traded to the Sabres on Aug. 7, 1992 in exchange for Stephane Beauregard and future considerations (Eric Daze). Hasek split time between the pipes with Tom Draper, and future Hall of Fame goalie, Grant Fuhr.

	Games Played	Wins	Losses	Ties	GAA	SV %
Dominik Hasek	28	11	10	4	3.15	.896
Grant Fuhr	29	11	15	2	3.47	.891
Tom Draper	11	5	6	0	3.70	.881

The Buffalo Sabres finished fourth in the NHL Adams Division during their 1992-93 campaign. Dominik Hasek picked up his first career postseason victory on Apr. 24, 1993 against the Boston Bruins—allowing one goal on 24 shots on net in Game Four.

The Sabres bounced the Black and Gold in the Division semi-finals in four-straight before being swept by the Montreal Canadiens in the Division Finals.

During the 1993-94 season, the Buffalo Sabres finished fourth in the Northeast Division before losing in the Quarterfinals to the New Jersey Devils, 4-3. Hasek posted a 3-4 record with two shutouts, a .950 save-percentage, and led all playoff goalies with a 1.61 goals-against average in 484 minutes.

No.39 played in 58 games with a 30-20-6 record, while leading the league with a 1.95 goals-against, .930 save-percentage, and seven shutouts. Hasek, at age 29, also won his first-of-six Vezina Trophies, first-of-three William M. Jennings Award, was selected as First Team All-Star, and was the Hart Memorial runner-up.

Due to a lockout, the 1994-95 NHL season was shortened to just 48 games. The NHL implemented a few new rules to the league. The Boston Bruins were playing in their final season in the Boston Garden, and Dominik Hasek continued on with his amazing, and somewhat unorthodox style of play.

Buffalo once again finished fourth in the Northeast Division, while losing once again in the first round of the playoffs—4-1 versus the Philadelphia Flyers. “The Dominator” posted a 19-14-7 record in ‘95, leading the NHL once again in GAA with 2.11, a .930 save-percentage, and five shutouts (tied with Ed Belfour).

Hasek won his second-straight Vezina Trophy, First team All-Star, and was a Hart memorial candidate.

Finishing fifth in the Northeast Division, Hasek and the Sabres failed to reach the playoff in the 1995-96 season. A pivotal reason for missing the postseason had to do with trading away one of their most prolific offensive players. Alexander Mogilny was shipped to the Vancouver Canucks, leaving Sabres’ center Pat Lafontaine to run the one-man-show.

Over the next two seasons, from 1996-98, Hasek continued to carry the slightly above-average Sabres into the playoffs, while having historical back-to-back seasons. Buffalo finished first in the Northeast Division in 1996-97 (third overall), but lost 4-1 in the Conference Semifinals to the Philadelphia Flyers.

Although the Sabres were bounced from the playoffs in the first two rounds, Hasek officially etched his name as the league's most dominating and feared goalie—as if he hadn't already—while solidifying himself as an all-time great.

Hasek won back-to-back Vezina and Hart Memorial Trophies in 1997 and '98, along with the Lester B. Pearson Award—becoming the first goaltender ever to win the Hart Trophy twice.

In the 1997-98 season Hasek also set a franchise record with 13 shutouts, while playing in a career-high 72 games. In the month of December, The Dominator tied an all-time record for most shutouts in a month, with six.

Hasek and the Sabres headed to the Stanley Cup Finals the following year for the first time since the 1974-75 season. Hasek ended the regular season leading the NHL in save percentage for the sixth consecutive time with his career-high .937.

The seventh ranked Sabres would end up losing to the Dallas Stars 4-2, but Hasek 's individual numbers throughout the playoffs were astounding as usual. In 19 playoff games Hasek posted a 13-6 record, two shutouts, a 1.77 goals-against average, and led all goalies with a .939 save percentage.

Hasek's season was by shorted forty games due to a groin injury sustained during a game versus the Blackhawks in October. The future Hall of Fame goalie was back in time for the playoffs, but Buffalo was once again knocked out by the Flyers, 4-1.

During his final season with Buffalo in 2000-01 Hasek went out with a bang by collecting his sixth Vezina Trophy—a Modern Era record—and winning his second William M. Jennings Trophy. The Sabres beat the Flyers in six in the first round of the playoffs, but would lose to Mario Lemieux and the Pittsburgh Penguins in seven.

DETROIT RED WINGS & OTTAWA SENATORS

Before the start of the 2001-02 season, Hasek was traded to the Detroit Red Wings, where he would play in four of his last five seasons. The Dominator helped lead the Wings to a league-best 116 points, while posting a career-high 41 wins with just 15 losses.

Hasek won his first Stanley Cup during his first season in Detroit, a 4-1 triumph over the Carolina Hurricanes. Defenseman Niklas Lidstrom took home the Conn Smythe honors, but No.39's numbers were staggering throughout the postseason.

He led all goaltenders with 1,455 minutes in 23 games played, 16 playoff victories, and six shutouts. Top it all off with a 1.85 goals-against average, and a .920 save-percentage.

After his first (brief) retirement from the 2002-03 NHL season, Hasek returned to Detroit for his second stint with the team the following year. Sidelined with a groin injury, Hasek appeared in just 14 games in the 2003-04 season. Unselfishly, Hasek refused almost half of his $6-million contract that season, and did not accept any pay since Jan. 9, 2003.

"He just felt that he wasn't doing what he really had set out to do, which is to play hockey, and play at a high level," General Manager Ken Holland said. "At that time, he told me that he did not want to receive any further salary until he was ready to play."

After the injury-plagued season, Hasek’s contract expired, and he signed with the Ottawa Senators on Jul. 6, 2004. Hasek reached a milestone that year by collecting his 300th career win against the Boston Bruins–a 5-1 victory on Oct. 15, 2005.

After the Senators were eliminated in the second round of the playoffs, Hasek was released in the off-season, despite his willingness to play for a discounted $500,000.

".. I've had discussions with his agent, Rich Winter, and (Hasek) wants to come back," said Senators GM John Muckler.

Hasek once again returned to Detroit for the 2006-07 season, signing a one-year contract worth $750,000. No.39 and the Red Wings finished the season with 113-points and as the No.1 seed in the Western Conference. Hasek played in 58 games, while posting a 38-11-6 record with eight shutouts, 2.14 goals-against average, and a .913 save-percentage.

Hasek played in all 18 playoff games for the Wing, compiling a 10-8 record with a 1.78 goals-against average, and .923 save percentage. Detroit lost 4-2 in the Western Conference Finals against the eventual Stanley Cup winners, the Anaheim Ducks.

After contemplating retirement, Dominik Hasek re-signed with the Red Wings on Jul. 5, 2007 to another one-year contract. The contract was reportedly worth two million dollars with an additional two million in bonuses—this after Hasek turned down the initial five million dollar offer in order to clear some needed cap space for the rest of the squad.

Hasek played his final 41 games in 2007-08, collecting his second Stanley Cup, and officially passing the torch to Chris Osgood.

Throughout his 16 seasons in the NHL, Dominik Hasek was clearly the best player at his position.

Just as Patrick Roy popularized the "butterfly style" of goaltending, Hasek’s more unorthodox "flopper style" was equally as successful. His unparalleled off-season workout regimen allowed him to be one of the most flexible and dexterous net minders we have ever seen.

To add to his unusual style of play, The Dominator would usually cover-up the puck with his blocker rather than his trapper (glove). And while other goalies were getting funky with abstract designs on their goalie helmets, Hasek opted for a simple helmet and cage.

While other all-time greats—Martin Brodeur and Patrick Roy—started their NHL careers at the ages of 19 respectively, Hasek began his at 26. During that time, instead of dominating in the NHL, Hasek had solidified himself amongst the international best.

With his great International career, World and Junior World Championships, Olympic Games medals and honors, and his long illustrious NHL impact, Dominik “The Dominator” Hasek is the greatest goalie of all-time.

This article was originally published on Examiner.com

David Krejci Signs to Multi-Year Extension with Bruins

Mark Marino — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 20:40:56 -0400

With just 29 days before the NHL free agency period, the Boston Bruins signed 23-year-old David Krejci to a multi-year extension. Although the terms of the deal have not been publicly disclosed, TSN.ca reports that, "The contract is a three-year deal at $3.5, $3.75, and $4-million per year, respectively."

Krejci, along with general manager Peter Chiarelli, will be addressing the media tomorrow afternoon via conference call.

Coming off a breakout year, Krejci led the NHL in plus-minus with a plus-36. His 73 points ranked second on the Bruins, and he was one of just three players to suit-up for all 82 games this season.

Krejci also played in all 11 playoff games in 2009, registering eight points.

Just less than one month remains before the free agency splash in the NHL. Peter Chiarelli and Co. still have a lot of work to do with their remaining UFA and RFA's before July 1—while having approximately $6 to $9 million remaining in the salary cap.

This article was originally published on Boston-Bruins-Examiner~y2009m6d2-Boston-Bruins-sign-David-Krejci-to-multiyear-extension">Examiner.com

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Follow Mark at http://twitter.com/BruinsExaminer

Today in Boston Bruins History: May 27

Mark Marino — Wed, 27 May 2009 08:51:56 -0400

1932: "Rocky" Jim Bartlett was born today in Verdun, Quebec, Canada. The LW started his NHL career with the New York Rangers in 1955-56, but spent the majority of his hockey career in the AHL with the Baltimore Clippers and Providence Reds. Rocky played on season in Boston—1960-61—scoring 24-points in 63 games, while racking-up 95 penalty minutes.

1975: Born today in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, center Andre Savage signed with the Boston Bruins in 1998. He spent three seasons with the Black and Gold, splitting time between Boston and AHL Providence Bruins. Savage notched 20 points 50 games with the Boston Bruins before signing with the Vancouver Canucks in 2001.

1980: Defenseman Jonathan Girard was born this day in Rawdon, Quebec, Canada. Girard's career was cut short in 2003 due to a horrific automobile accident—suffering a pelvis injury. The prospect played in just one game after the accident, and Girard announced his retirement on Nov. 30, 2005.

2008: Boston Bruins traded defenseman Jonathan Sigalet to the Columbus Blue Jackets, in exchange for LW Matt Marquardt. Sigalet was Boston's fourth-round pick in 2005 (100 overall), after forgoing his final two years at Bowling Green in 2004-05.

Marquardt was selected by the Blue Jackets in the seventh-round (194 overall) in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. The 21-year old played in 71 games with the AHL Providence Bruins this season, with nine goals and 13 assists.

This article was originally published on Examiner.com

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Today in Boston Bruins History: May 26

Mark Marino — Tue, 26 May 2009 08:25:00 -0400

While we all wish the Boston Bruins were playing tonight in Game Four against the Pittsburgh Penguins; May 26 still has historical significance in the Hub of Hockey.

1930: Bruins Lorne Ferguson was born today in Palmerston, Ontario, Canada. The LW played in 201 games in Black and Gold from 1949-56—registering 47 goals and 41 assists. Ferguson was then traded to the Detroit Red Wings midway though the 1955-56 campaign.

1959: Pat Riggin was born on this day in Kincardine, Ontario, Canada. The Bruins acquired Riggin from the Washington Capitals during the 1985-86 season for net-minder Pete Peeters. Riggin played 49 games between the pipes for the B's, posting a 20-17-9 record before being traded to the Pittsburgh Penguins for goaltender, Roberto Romano.

1975: PJ Stock was born today in Montreal, Quebec, Canada. The feisty LW brought some life back to Boston with his highlight-reel-fights. Standing just 5'10" and weighing roughly 180 lb., Stock threw-down with virtually every heavyweight in the NHL—most notably against Steven Peat.

No. 42 played in 130 games with the Bruins, while racking-up 282 penalty minutes. Stock now has a broadcasting career with Hockey Night in Canada—since 2007—as well as hosting his own radio show in Montreal called, The Stock Exchange.

1989: Boston lost to the Edmonton Oilers in the 1988-89 Stanley Cup Finals, 6-3. The Bruins were swept by Wayne Gretzky and the Oilers in four-straight. (2-1, 4-2, 6-3, 6-3).

2006: Peter Chiarelli was hired as General Manager of the Boston Bruins on this day. He previously worked for the Ottawa Senators for two years, as the teams assistant GM. Chiarelli in now in the final year of his four-year contract in Boston.

This article was originally published on Examiner.com

Follow Mark at http://twitter.com/BruinsExaminer

Claude Julien Wins The Sporting News NHL Coach of the Year

Mark Marino — Tue, 19 May 2009 21:49:58 -0400

Thirty-nine coaches and executives throughout the NHL voted, as The Sporting News named Boston Bruins Head Coach, Claude Julien, Coach of the Year.

Julien was hired as the man behind the bench in Boston on June 19, 2007—becoming the 28th coach in Bruins franchise history. Two successful seasons later, and Coach Claude rightfully deserved this award.

"One mans trash is another mans treasure."

Julien began his NHL coaching career with the Montreal Canadiens—leading the Habs to two fourth-place seasons in the Eastern Conference. In his first full season with Montreal in 2003-04, Julien and the Canadiens notched 93 points in the regular season before losing in the Eastern Conference Semifinals.

Julien was eventually fired in January of 2006, as GM Bob Gainey replace him of his duties. The Canadiens lost in the first round to the sixth-seed—and eventual Stanley Cup winners—Carolina Hurricanes.

Next stop: New Jersey Devils.

Claude Julien was hired as Head Coach of the Devils on June 13, 2006, before being abruptly fired by GM Lou Lamoriello on April 2, 2007 with just three games remaining in the regular season. Despite the 107 point season, Lamoriello took over the coaching duties as the second-seeded Devils lost in the Semifinals 4-1 to the Ottawa Senators.

Next job: Meet Peter Chiarelli and the Boston Bruins.

Julien brought the B's back to the playoffs in 2008 for the first time since the 2003-04 NHL season. The Bruins ended the season with 41 wins, 94 points and the eighth seed in the Eastern Conference.

Although Boston were bounced in the first round by their bitter rivals, the Montreal Canadiens, who could forget the heart and determination on that team? Down 3-1, Boston fought back to tie the series at 3-3, before ultimately losing Game Seven in Montreal.

Nonetheless, Boston was a hockey city once again.

From eighth place to first place, Julien and the Bruins had a remarkable season this year—including his first All Star appearance as Head Coach of the Eastern Conference team in January.

53-19-10 in 2008-09—Julien has accumulated a 94-48-22 record in his first two seasons as the Bruins Head Coach with back-to-back playoff appearances.

Rightfully deserving of Coach of the Year, congrats, Claude.

Mark is also the Boston Bruins Examiner on Examiner.com

Follow Mark at http://twitter.com/BruinsExaminer

Boston Bruins: Marc Savard Needs To Stay In Boston

Mark Marino — Tue, 19 May 2009 00:13:09 -0400

General Manager Peter Chiarelli and company certainly have their work cut out for them this this offseason.

The Boston Bruins have a plethora of UFA/RFA whom will hit the free agent market on the first of July if Boston doesn't resign them before then. The Bruins don't have too much cap space to play with, so their decisions need to be made wisely in order to repeat another playoff run.

The top two free agents in the Hub of Hockey this year are undoubtedly Phil Kessel and David Krejci.

To make matters even more difficult, both players will be going under the knife this offseason for repairs to their battered bodies. Both Krejci and Kessel will not be ready for training camp, and may in fact miss the first month or two of the 2009-10 season.

Fluto Shinzawa wrote a fantastic piece earlier today on boston.com; Krejci, Bruins were playing hurt—this is a must-read.

Krejci, diagnosed with an impingement on his right hip, is one of three Bruins who will have surgery in the upcoming weeks. Phil Kessel (torn rotator cuff and labrum) and Andrew Ference (groin tear) will also undergo operations. Recovery time for Krejci and Kessel is four to six months. Neither is expected to be in uniform for the start of the 2009-10 season.

Mark Recchi had a kidney stone removed last Wednesday, just over 24 hours prior to the Game Seven puck drop. Marc Savard, who sprained his right knee in Game Six, said he probably would have missed two weeks had it been the regular season. A cross-check to the back in Game One broke two of Chuck Kobasew's ribs. Zdeno Chara played through shoulder, knee, and groin injuries. Milan Lucic brushed off a bruised toe.

There have been a few rumors and hypothetical situations regarding the resignings of Krejci and Kessel—one of those being possibly trading Marc Savard and his $5 million contract.

No. 91 signed a four-year, $20-million contract with the Boston Bruins on July 1, 2006.

Savard spent the 2005-06 season with the Atlanta Thrashers, where he played in all 82 games—one of four players to play the entire season. Savard's career-high 97 points ranked him ninth in the NHL, and his 69 assists were good enough for third in the league.

Since coming to the Hub of Hockey, Savard picked up where he left off in Atlanta. The most underrated player in the NHL posted 96 points (ninth in the NHL). His 74 assists were good enough for third in the league, while playing in all 82 games for Boston—the only player to skate in all 82 games.

In 2007-08, Savard was sidelined with an injury, but still suited up for 74 games with the Bruins. He led all Boston players again with 78 points, and he was in the top three in the league in assists with 63. The B's managed to squeak into the playoffs, before getting bounced by the No. 1 seeded Montreal Canadiens in seven games. Savard tallied one goal and five assists in the playoffs.

This year was more of the same. The durable, consistent Savard was just one of three Bruins to have played in all 82 regular season games. He once again led the squad in points for the third year straight with 88—and ninth in the NHL.

Savard's 63 assists not only ranked him sixth best in the NHL, but his unselfish play made his linemates better too. Phil Kessel played wing on the first line with Savard while leading all Bruins with his career-high 36 goals.

“I’d like to finish here. I really don’t want to move around anymore,” Savard said. “I’m very happy here. I love the fans, I love the city…I’m open to anything, so we’ll see what happens.”

“I think it’d be nice for anybody to be able to do something like that,” he continued. “At the end of the day, I know I just have to wait and see.”

Both Kessel and Savard tore it up in the postseason, combining for 25 points and a plus-nine in 11 playoff games.

To break it down, Savard has played in all 18 playoff games for the Bruins since the 2007-08 season. He has averaged over a point per game with 19, and a plus-one rating.

Joe Thornton in Boston—35 playoff games, 19 points, minus-10.

Bottom line—Marc Savard needs to stay in Boston for next year and years to come.

This article was originaly published on Examiner.com

Follow Mark on Twitter, BruinsExaminer

The Boston Bruins 28 Weeks After

Mark Marino — Sun, 17 May 2009 23:07:57 -0400

The 2008-09 Bruins has given the city of Boston something worth cheering about, and may just have put "The Hub of Hockey" back on the map once again.

The Boston Bruins 28-week season has come-and-gone, as Bruins fans have witnessed its first true Stanley Cup contending team in the past decade end far too fast.

I've read many of the blogs—especially toward the mid-end of the season—listened to sports radio talk shows and its callers, and engaged in conversations with a number of people who "stopped watching/following the Bruins when Neely retired."

The posters of Black and Gold and "We Want It" flooded North Station like it was the Old Garden, and chants of "Let's Go Bruins" from the die-hard hockey-heads were almost reminiscent of the old "Gallery Gods."

Sell-out crowds, 116 regular season points, and first place in the Eastern Conference; the fans were back, and the original Six Boston Bruins were back.

We all witnessed the Black and Gold virtually dominate the regular season with relative ease. Although the post season has left us all with a sore spot, let's not forget the 23-2-1 run they had in the months of Nov. and Dec.—while winning 15 out of 16 games from Nov. 28-Jan. 1.

Fast forward 28-weeks—from their 5-4 victory in Colorado on Oct. 1, to the disheartening 3-2 OT loss to the 'Canes on May 14—we can now look into the upcoming 2009-10 season.

Peter Chiarelli has done a spectacular job since being named GM on May 26, 2006—putting together a solid squad, led by Head Coach, Claude Julien. And as if his job wasn't stressful enough, Chiarelli's job has gotten even more difficult entering this postseason.

The NHL free-agency date is Jul. 1, 2009, and the Boston Bruins have 11 full-time roster players who are restricted (RFA) or unrestricted free agents (UFA)—as well as 11 more in 2010-11.

Kevin Paul DuPont gave his take on this today, here, on boston.com. I definitely recommend taking a look at it as he breaks down the already cap-hit, free cap-space, and potential players that could be traded in order to create some added cap-room.

"Look for Chiarelli to get Krejci signed first—even if slightly above market—and relatively quickly (i.e. days ahead of the June 26-27 draft in Montreal).

Once Krejci is secured, Chiarelli then can: 1. sign Kessel at a reasonable number; 2. deal him around the draft; 3. entertain the prospect of someone overpaying Kessel as a free agent, and ultimately decide whether he wants to match the overpayment or take the compensation (first-round draft picks)."

I wrote about this inevitable situation, 2009 top free agents, back on Mar. 26, while focusing on four "must signs"—PJ Axelsson, David Krejci, Tim Thomas, and Phil Kessel.

It's time to start thinking about the upcoming 2009-10 Boston Bruins team, as it's sure to be different than this year's past.

RESTRICTED FREE AGENTS

Phil Kessel: $850,000
David Krejci: $825,00
Byron Bitz: $625,000
Matt Hunwick: $775,000
(Kevin Regan): $720,000

UNRESTRICTED FREE AGENTS

Manny Fernandez: $4,750,000
Steve Montador: $800,000
Shane Hnidy: $760,000
Mark Recchi: $1,250,000
P.J. Axelsson: $1,850,000
Stephan Yelle: $750,000
(If Yelle doesn't retire, and is willing to re-sign with the B's for roughly the same salary, this one is a no-brainer.)

GROUP VI UFA : A 25+ year-old player, with three or more professional seasons, and less than 80 games played (28 for goalies).

Johnny Boychuk: $500,000
Martin St. Pierre: $500,000

Mark Marino is also the Boston Bruins Examiner at Examiner.com

Follow Mark at http://twitter.com/BruinsExaminer

Bruins Fall Short in Game Four: Carolina Edges Boston 4-1

Mark Marino — Fri, 08 May 2009 23:37:56 -0400

Jussi Jokinen strikes agai—notching the game-winner for the second straight game for the Carolina Hurricanes—as the 'Canes take a 3-1 lead in this best of seven series with a 4-1 triumph over the Boston Bruins.

Bruins goaltender Tim Thomas made 27 saves on 31 shots that he faced tonight, as the Bruins now have their backs against the wall headed into Game Five.

"I think our team has probably picked the worst time of the year to play their worst hockey, and that's what's happening" from Bruins coach Claude Julien after the game.

Julien went on to say after the game, "When you look at the whole team right now, there isn't been anybody who has played up to their potential"

Eric Staal lit the lamp first with a power play goal, his eighth of the playoffs--also setting a club franchise record.

The Bruins were completely out-played in the first; having gone out-shot 4-12 in this pivotal Game Four.

Marc Savard snapped a 0-17 power play skid for the Bruins, scoring the lone goal in the second period for his fifth of the playoffs. The rest of the second was definitely in the Bruins favor, out-shooting the 'Canes 10-6.

The B's showed glimpses of the old Big Bad Bruins when Milan Lucic almost danced with Carolina's Dennis Sidenberg. Lucic, along with Marc Savard, were both sent to the box for two-minutes for roughing.

The momentum was shifted the Bruins' way, but the 'Canes capitalized in the third. Jussi Jokinen has been no-joke this series, scoring his sixth playoff goal on the power play—a terrible call on Zdeno Chara for hooking.

The officiating tonight was dismal, but that's no excuse. For the third-straight game, Carolina just wanted it more. The Bruins out-hit the 'Canes 37-35, but Carolina was more aggressive with the puck, out-shooting the Bruins for the third game this series, 32-21. The 'Canes have now out-shot the Bruins 125-104 in the past four games.

After sweeping the Montreal Canadiens in four—what seemed to be—easy games, the Bruins momentum carried over to Game One; as everyone anticipated another easy pass past Carolina. After tonight, everyone is singing a different tune.

The Bruins vs. Canadiens rivalry and history is one that the Bruins fans would like to forget about—until this year. The Bruins sweep over the mighty Habs this year seemed to be "good enough" for the Bruins and its diehard hockey-head-fans in Boston. Had the Bruins limped-into the playoffs with the eight-seed like they did last year, I could understand.

But, the B's were just one-point behind the San Jose Sharks for the Presidents Cup as the best team (most points) in the NHL this season.

They didn't just-so-happen run into a good team in the Carolina Hurricanes, and a hot goalie in Cam Ward, they just-so-happened to beat an unsuccessful Montreal team, and just-so-happen to face a hot, 2006 Stanley Cup team, and Conn Smythe winning goaltender.

The difference between the Bruins team in Round One and the Bruins team in Round two; is that the Round One Bruins' team played full 60-minutes every game; where as this round—aside from Game One—this Boston team has not.

Although history may say that the Bruins over Canadiens in the playoffs meant success, a loss to the Carolina Hurricanes—a team whom the Bruins went 4-0-0 in the regular season—would be insurmountably worse.

Bruins-Hurricanes, Game Three: Carolina Edges Boston in OT

Mark Marino — Thu, 07 May 2009 00:52:12 -0400

Jussi Jokinen scored his fifth goal of the playoffs, a wrist shot just 2:48 into overtime, as the Carolina Hurricanes stunned the Boston Bruins tonight, 3-2.

Tim Thomas did his part tonight, stopping 38 of 41 shots on goal in the losing effort—his second straight—as the Bruins went down 2-1 in this playoff series.

Boston lit the lamp first at 8:43 into the first period, as Milan Lucic notched his first playoff goal this year from Dennis Wideman and Marc Savard. Lucic led all Bruins' with five shots on goal.

The Bruins were winning the physical part of the game in the first period, out-hitting the 'Canes 17-10 after the first 20-minutes—yet were out-shot 12-8.

"In order to win the series we have to be a lot better" said a disgruntled Coach Claude Julien after the game. "I haven't seen our team make so many mistakes as we did tonight...bottom line they were definitely the better team tonight"

Similar to Game Two in Boston, the second period tonight seemed to be the kryptonite yet again for the Black and Gold. Andrew Ference was called for boarding at 16:28 in the second, and the 'Canes took full-advantage.

Eric Staal scored an unassisted snap-shot on the power play—stealing the puck from Steve Montador in the corner. Montador was in the middle of a wind-up slapper, in an attempt to clear the puck. A costly mistake.

"They're playing like a hungrier team right now," said Boston netminder Tim Thomas.

Former Boston Bruin Sergei Samsonov struck next for Carolina, just 1:09 later from Scott Walker and Jussi Jokinen. Phil Kessel lost an edge near the red-line, coughing up the puck that resulted in the 'Canes taking the lead, 2-1.

Mark Recchi scored his first goal of the playoffs to tie it up at 2-2. Steve Montador made a nice pinch at the blue line to keep the puck in, a flip-pass off to Kobasew, and the tip-in to send this game to OT.

Claude Julien went on to say after the game, "Our heads weren't in it...a lot of puck turnovers and a lot of things that are very uncharacteristic of our team."

Andrew Ference left the game and did not return, with what appears to be an undisclosed injury.

The Bruins made some sloppy plays in their own zone, and were unable to clear the puck. Tim Thomas also said, "Where we normally make a smart play and just get it out of the zone we tried to do too much, in certain ways...we weren't doing enough."

The Bruins have now gone 0-9 on the power play this series, versus the 'Canes since going 4-16 against the Montreal Canadiens in round one.

Carolina just wanted it more tonight, plain and simple. The Bruins have yet to play full a 60 minutes since the Game One, and it's in the second period where Boston seems to fall flat. Although Boston got the 44-38 edge in hits tonight, the Hurricanes registered almost twice the shots, and now have the advantage in this series.

Their backs are officially against the wall now—down 2-1 this series with Game Four on Friday back in Carolina. As the playoffs get deeper, the 'Canes seem to get better. Hopefully, Boston can make the necessary adjustments to get this thing back to even, before heading back home for Game Five on Sunday.

This was originally published from the Boston Bruins Examiner at Examiner.com

Follow Mark at http://twitter.com/BruinsExaminer

mark_p_marino@yahoo.com

Boston Bruins Trump Carolina 'Canes, 4-1

Mark Marino — Fri, 01 May 2009 23:45:53 -0400

With nine days off, the Boston Bruins looked as if they didn’t miss a beat, by defeating the Carolina Hurricanes 4-1 tonight at the TD Banknorth Garden.

The Bruins lit the lamp first tonight—a tip-in by David Krejci from an Aaron Ward snap-shot at 1:34 into the first period.

Marc Savard netted his third and fourth goals in the playoffs tonight, including the game winner, as the B’s cruised past the ‘Canes. Savard now has seven points in five post season game thus far.

“One man’s trash is another man’s treasure.”

I’m not sure if there’s a better cliché that best describes, Michael Ryder. No. 73 spent the majority of his playoff time with the 2007-08 Montreal Canadiens up in the press boxes, looking down.

Ryder had another two-point game tonight, tallying an unassisted goal and an assist.

In his first year with the Bruins, not only does Ryder lead all Bruins players in scoring this post season (five games)—but he also leads all NHL players with five goals—and his nine points only trails Anaheim Ducks’ Ryan Getzlaf with 10, in eight games.

Goalie Tim Thomas….what’s left to say about No. 30? Another victory, another phenomenal performance, and another reason why this guy is hands-down, Vezina Trophy winner.

Thomas stopped 26 of 27 shots that he faced tonight—improving his post season numbers to 5-0 (first) with a 1.40 GAA (second) and .949 SV% (fourth).

In his last 15 games, including the playoffs, Thomas has posted a 13-1-1 record, one shutout, and 455 saves on 485 shots on goal.

The Hurricanes simply looked over-matched tonight. Boston is now 5-0-0 against Carolina this season, outscoring the ‘Canes 22-7.

The physical play of the Bruins tonight was just too much for Eric Staal and the Hurricanes to withstand--out-hitting Carolina 32-23. Staal, who had seven points in seven games entering game one, was held point-less, while registering just two shots on goal.

Discipline has also kept the Black and Gold in control of every game in this post season. With just one minor penalty tonight, Boston has been short-handed just nine times in the past five games—while being on the power play 22 times.

Game two is back in Boston on Sunday night. If the Bruins keep this momentum going, expect this series to end as quickly as it did in round one.

Bruins Trump Habs: How Sweep It Is!

Mark Marino — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 01:47:04 -0400

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.

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

Boston Bruins: A Look Ahead Into the First Round

Mark Marino — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 16:14:22 -0400

Last Saturday was Fan Appreciation Game at the TD Banknorth Garden. There were many prizes given out to the fans; including playoff tickets, gift certificates, shirts off our backs, and many more.

But perhaps the greatest gift the Bruins gave their fans that day was a 1-0 victory over the New York Rangers, clinching the best record in the Eastern Conference, and giving Boston home-ice advantage throughout the playoffs—the first time since 2003-'04.

The Presidents Trophy for the best record in the NHL is still mathematically possible, but highly unlikely. The last time Boston won this coveted trophy was back in the 1989-'90 season.

The Bruins (112 points) have one game in hand over the San Jose Sharks (117 points) in the West, however, the Sharks need just two-points in their final two-games to solidify their No. 1 spot—against the 14th place Phoenix Coyotes and the 13th place L.A. Kings.

With the No. 1 seed, we can now fast-forward to Apr. 12, 2009—the official schedule release of the NHL playoffs—and anticipate one of three teams that the Black and Gold will face as their first-round opponents.

Montreal Canadiens

As history has proven to us over the years, the Canadiens certainly have the upper-hand over the Bruins in the playoffs. In the 2003-'04 seasons, the first-place Bruins fell victim—yet again—to the eighth seed Canadiens in a seven game series.

However, the Bruins went 4-0-1 against the Canadiens this year, with five major penalties in those five games played. Montreal may have the 154-143 shots on goal advantage, but Boston has outscored the Habs 18-9 during those five meetings.

Tack on the 166 total penalty minutes between the two teams, and this 80-plus-year rivalry was as entertaining as any.

This year, the Canadiens are running out of time and players, and may in fact miss the post-season for the second time in three years.

Montreal currently holds the seventh spot in the East with 92 points. They have lost their last two games, including their most recent 3-1 loss against the eighth place Rangers (91 points).

Defensemen Andrei Markov (out three-weeks) and Mathieu Schneider (out for the season) are the latest victims to land on the injured-reserve list—two irreplaceable blue-liners. Defenseman Francis Bouillon (groin) and forward Robert Lang (achilles) have also been on the IR since February.

The Habs have two regular season games remaining: Thursday night at Boston and Saturday night versus the sixth place, Pittsburgh Penguins (95 points). It’s not looking good for the boys north of the border, but still possible.

New York Rangers

Just 2-3-0 in their last five, the Rangers (91 points) are just one win away from clinching a playoff berth.

In their four meetings during the regular season, Boston is 2-1-1 against the Rangers. New York’s net minder Henrik Lundqvist started all four contests, while only allowing seven goals on 115 shots against.

Lundqvist has been the catalyst for the Rangers success this season. The All-Star (36-25-7) ranks fourth in the NHL in wins and losses, with a respectable 2.44 GAA and .915 SV percentage. Posting a record of 6-4-0 in his last 10 starts, No. 30 has a shutout against the New Jersey Devils, and has only surrendered 20 goals on 273 shots during that span.

The Rangers host the fourth place Philadelphia Flyers (97 points) tomorrow night at Madison Square Garden; then finish off the regular season in Philly on Sunday. An eighth place slot is almost certain, but I believe the Rangers will end up seventh when it’s all said-and-done.

Florida Panthers

The Panthers are right on the playoff bubble and are making this thing interesting, having gone 4-2-0 in their last six. Their most recent game didn’t help their cause, falling short to the Flyers, 2-1 on Tuesday.

Nonetheless, Florida is making their last final push toward the No. 8 slot with two remaining must-win games—at Atlanta against the Thrashers tomorrow night, and back home on Saturday night against the Washington Capitals.

The Bruins are 3-1 against the Panthers this season while outscoring Florida 14-5 in those four.

Goaltender Tomas Vokoun went 1-1 in his two starts (Nov. 21, Feb. 21) against the B’s, while stopping 76 of 80 shots that he faced—including a 41-save shutout.

While splitting the time with Vokoun, Craig Anderson didn’t fare so well in his two starts—allowing nine goals on 66 shots in two losing efforts.

It has been eight years—excluding the lockout season—since the Big Bad Bruins have made it past the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals, but something tells me that this season will be different.

Tim Thomas: Well Worth the Price Tag

Mark Marino — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 15:47:37 -0400

WEEI columnist Joe Haggerty wrote an interesting piece this morning headlined, "A Good Day for Thomas, But What About the B‘s?”

He mentions many things—the good, the bad, the pros, the cons, and the all-important salary cap issues—regarding the alleged $5-mil per year for Boston Bruins netminder Tim Thomas. It’s an interesting read and something worth taking a look at.

However, there is one teeny-tiny thing I want to talk about within his piece. It’s only one sentence, but I decided to dig a little deeper into this sentence, and share what would have went down if this had happened.

“If the B’s had waited until this summer, it’s possible that they could have saved themselves as much as a million on the all-important salary cap hit.”

After I read this, I was a bit shocked. I had to re-read it once more…and once more again, asking myself the same thing, over and over, “If they waited until the summer?!”

Perplexing is an understatement. The only thing that I could come up with for an answer is, “He’d be in another city.”

Detroit.

The first day of summer is June 21, 2009.

The first day of NHL free agency is July 1, 2009.

So, that is a lot of time between now and then. A lot can happen.

Thomas is arguably the front-runner for the Vezina Trophy this year. He leads all NHL goalies in goals-against-average (GAA) and save percentage (SV %). His career-high 33 wins this season ranks him sixth in the league, and with just 51 games played this season, that’s a staggering winning-percentage.

So, if he wins the Vezina, guess what? The price tag goes up!

The Bruins have turned Boston into believers ever since the tight playoff series against the Montreal Canadiens last year. What was supposed to be four or five games and out, the Bruins stretched the series to the max, before finally losing game seven.

This year, the believers stayed true and the B’s have far from disappointed. Just one win away—or a Washington loss—from clinching the Eastern Conference, Boston (110 points) will have home-ice advantage throughout the playoffs.

Just three points behind the San Jose Sharks (113 points) for the Presidents Trophy as the best team in the NHL, the Bruins are certainly a legitimate team for Stanley Cup contention.

So, if the Bruins make it to the promise land with Timmy Thomas as the anchor, guess what? The price tag goes up, again!

How much more? Well, that’s anyone’s guess, but I still firmly believe that Detroit would have made a big splash for Thomas come July 1.
Minnesota-Wild-Examiner" target="_blank">
Minnesota Wild extended the contract of 31-year-old goalie Niklas Backstrom on March 3, 2009. He’s having a heck of a season, ranking in the top-eight in the NHL in every major category thus far. However, he’s now getting paid $6-mil per year over the next four years, for never making it out of the Western Conference quarterfinals.

The Chicago Blackhawks signed former Washington Capitals netminder, Cristobal Huet to a four-year, $22.5-mil contract on the very first day of free agency. Huet, now 33 years old, is having a mediocre season at best, splitting time with 36-year-old Nikolai Khabibulin.

There is in fact a dire need for proven goalies, and the Detroit Red Wings are a prime example.

Although the Red Wings may have the most prolific offense in the league (3.60 goals-per-game), their goaltending ranks 21st with an average of 2.95 goals-against per-game.

Chris Osgood, now 36 years old, ranks 45th in the NHL with a .884 SV percentage, and 41st in GAA with 3.17. He is owed just $2.55-million over the next two seasons, a small price to pay to back up someone like Thomas.

Now splitting most of the time, Ty Conklin has emerged into more of the everyday goalie than his original backup plan. The 33-year-old is putting up respectable numbers this year, far superior than Osgood’s, and will become an unrestricted free-agent at the end of the season—one of Detroit’s 11 free agents.

To survive on offense can only get you so far.

To rely on strong goaltending will get you further.

Now, we just have to “hurry up and wait” to see if players like Phil Kessel and David Krejci can remain in the black and gold uniforms. Boston has roughly $10-mil in cap-space for the upcoming 2009-10 season, about the same as Detroit.

So whether it is three million, four million, or five million per season—to hold onto a rock in net like Thomas is well worth it.

Bruins-Thomas Agree To Three-Year Extension

Mark Marino — Fri, 03 Apr 2009 01:23:25 -0400

Boston's sports talk radio station WEEI, as well as ESPN, report that goaltender Tim Thomas and the Boston Bruins have agreed to a three-year contract extension.

"John Buccigross and Matt Barnaby reported on ESPN SportsCenter that the Bruins will call a press conference this weekend to announce an agreement on an extension with goalie Tim Thomas. Thomas is considered a top candidate for the Vezina Trophy, honoring the NHL's best goaltender. The 34-year-old is in the final season of a three-year deal," according to the ESPN report.

Boston Bruins Look For Fifth Straight Victory: Seventh Player Award Night

Mark Marino — Thu, 02 Apr 2009 13:32:48 -0400

The Boston Bruins—4-0-1 in their last five—look to win their fifth straight tonight at the TD Banknorth Garden against the Ottawa Senators. The Bruins are 4-0 against the Sens this season and are eyeing their seventh straight victory, dating back to last season, over Ottawa.

The Black and Gold (108 points) have six games remaining, a seven point lead in the Eastern Conference, and one game in hand over the Washington Capitals (101 points).

We are finally watching a Bruins team that is getting hot at just the right time. The Bruins have outscored their opponents in their last four victories, 18-10.

On the other hand, Boston has been out-shot by a substantial margin in their last four wins, 131-153.

Goalies Tim Thomas and Manny Fernandez have split the time in net evenly, both notching “W’s” in each of the two.

Thomas stopped 86 of 90 total shots he faced against the New Jersey Devils (4-1) and the Philadelphia Flyers (4-3), while Fernandez blocked 57 of 63 shots in wins over the Toronto Maple Leafs (7-5) and the Tampa Bay Lightning (3-1).

The Big Bad Bruins have been showcasing their physical game as well, out-hitting teams 114-108 in their last five. Take that plus seven fighting majors and a handful of matching roughing penalties, the Bruins refuse to be pushed around.

Phil Kessel is expected to miss his fourth straight game with an ailing shoulder, while bruiser Shawn Thornton is expected to miss his second straight with an undisclosed injury.

Last Five Games

Chuck Kobasew and Marc Savard each have points.

Mark Recchi: Six points and one PPG.

Michael Ryder: Six points, one PPG.

Milan Lucic: Five points, two fighting majors, 12 PIM.

David Krejci: Eight points.

Tonight is the annual NESN Seventh Player Award.

Boston Bruins' 2009 "Must-Keep" Free Agents

Mark Marino — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 14:38:44 -0400

Day one of free agency in the NHL lands on Jul. 1, 2009.

The Boston Bruins have 11 full-time players on their active roster who will be hitting the market this summer—plus a few others down in Providence. With the playoffs approaching, this is still something that is in the back of the minds of many Bruins fans.

It is virtually (mathematically) impossible for the Bruins organization to retain all of these players. An estimated $40 million is already taken up toward next year's salary cap. That leaves an approximate $15-million cushion to be distributed toward the 2009 F/A.

I came up with a list of four “must-keeps” for the upcoming 2009-10 season and beyond.

PJ Axelsson

The 11-year Bruin is one of the most overlooked players on the Black and Gold. His name isn’t going to pop up in the box score every night, but that’s not to say he doesn’t do his part.

Axelsson plays a pivotal role for Boston’s special teams. The alternate captain from Sweden certainly isn’t going to “wow” us with his 20-30 points per season, but he’s a definite keeper. A perfect example of, “you don’t notice it when you have it, but you’ll notice it more when you don’t.”

Phil Kessel

Now, I’ll be the first one to admit it. I was among the small percentage of Bruins fans who were hoping for this guy's name to be mentioned as traded back on Mar. 4. One main reason is because I think Kessel is going to demand some big bucks and a lengthy contract after this season—something that the Bruins may or may not be able to oblige.

The Kessel-for-Keith Tkachuk and David Perron rumor was something that sparked my attention, but, who can believe all the rumors nowadays?

Yet, the 21-year-old kid has got skills, some nasty skills. The kind of skills that you just can’t teach, especially his lightning fast speed. He missed a half dozen games this year with mono, yet still leads all Bruins players with 31 goals.

To let No. 81 walk away could very well come back to haunt them one day. The youngster has too much potential and upside to not bring back. Sure, Boston could move him before Jul. 1, but the chances for any comparable payback are slim. As a 2009 RFA, the best kind of compensation they can now get for Kessel is a draft pick, depending on the NHL Collective Bargaining Agreement.

David Krejci

When you watch a player on the ice, does he have "it?" When you watch David Krejci, that answer is a unanimous “yes.”

The Czech Republic native has had a breakout season and then some this year. Krejci has been atop the NHL leaders in plus-minus, and has remained a steady second on Boston’s points total. A bona fide top-two center, Krejci has surpassed the potential of many this year, including myself. To say that No. 46 has gone above and beyond our expectations is an understatement.

My pick for the Seventh Player Award and second “must-sign” of 2009.
Tim Thomas

What needs to be said that isn’t apparent already?

Tim Thomas has been nothing short of sensational again this year for the B’s. The NHL leader in both GAA (2.11) and SV percentage (.931), Thomas is the frontrunner for the Vezina Trophy this season as the best goalie in the NHL.

He just captured his career-high 31st win of the season in his 49th game played—a 41-save victory over the second-place New Jersey Devils back on Mar. 22.

The goaltending duo of Thomas and Fernandez has a sizable lead for the William M. Jennings Trophy with a 2.26 GAA (Minnesota: 2.42). Both net minders are UFAs at the end of the season, but I think the obvious choice goes to the more deserving Thomas.

Tuukka Rask has instantly become a YouTube favorite as of late. In case you haven’t seen it yet, take a moment to watch it here.

Rask, who once made quite the buzz around Boston with his 35-save shutout victory back on Jan. 31 against the New York Rangers, has now become known for this conniption fit. This is a case of sincere immaturity on behalf of the 22-year-old Rask—another reason to prove that Rask is just not ready to carry the load as a No. 1 goaltender here in Boston, or the NHL.

The best case scenario is to have Thomas come back—three years, $15 mil—for another full season as No. 1 and have Rask as backup, with 25-30 starts.

Other notable mentions: Byron Bitz, Matt Hunwick, Steve Montador, and "Sherriff" Shane Hnidy.

Boston Bruins Finally Clinch a Playoff Berth

Mark Marino — Sun, 22 Mar 2009 21:47:26 -0400

The biggest win of 2009? I think, yes!

The Boston Bruins won in dominant fashion today at the TD Banknorth Garden against the New Jersey Devils, 4-1.

If anyone has read my pieces before, you may have become accustomed to me saying the Bruins need to play a “full 60-minutes.” And if you had seen this game, well, you know they did.

Although the Bruins have been in first place in the Eastern Conference for some time now, they have certainly had their backs against the wall. Boston has 27 losses this season, yet 18 of those losses have come since Jan. 03, 2009, 36-games-played. That’s half the games in 2009 that the Bruins have lost. Half!

But the Black and Gold persevered today, winning their biggest game of the calendar 2009 year.

They clinched a playoff berth.

Since they have slipped out of the top-two overall in the NHL, they are still top dogs in the NHL’s Eastern Conference.

The Bruins entered the game today with a three point lead over the Devils. So what could have been a one-point differential, they made it five. Again, the biggest game of 2009.

The Bruins have clinched a playoff spot, what spot is still undetermined, but they have clinched it nonetheless. They are the first team in the East to do so.

The Devils are traveling tonight to Philadelphia to face the Flyers; a back-to-back road series.

The Flyers are in the midst of a two-game winning streak, all against the East. The Broad Street Bullies just beat the Pittsburgh Penguins, 3-1, earlier today.

Boston is off until Saturday, when they head to Toronto.

The new-look Maple Leafs are coming off a 5-2 victory over the Montreal Canadiens tonight and are en route to face the third place Eastern Conference Washington Capitals on Tuesday, and the Buffalo Sabres on Friday, before facing the Bruins.

Take some time off, B’s, but let’s keep the momentum going for another 60-minutes.

Bruins-Senators: Boston Downs Ottawa, 5-3

Mark Marino — Fri, 13 Mar 2009 13:17:14 -0400

The Boston Bruins remain undefeated against the Ottawa Senators this season after a 5-3 victory last night at the TD Banknorth Garden.

The Bruins started the first half of the first period on fire, looking like the Bruins of November in taking an early 3-0 lead.

Aaron Ward lit the lamp first for the Bruins, which was nice redemption for taking an early two-minute minor hooking penalty just 1:10 into the game.

No. 44 hopped out of the penalty box and took a wicked slap shot past netminder Alex Auld for the shorthanded goal.

PJ Axelsson would score his sixth goal of the season just five minutes after, and Chuck Kobasew netted his 17th of the year, just over three minute later. Kobasew is now five goals away from tying his single-season high (22)—not bad considering that the Vancouver native has missed 14 games for the Black and Gold thus far.

Ottawa captain Jason Spezza answered just two minutes later for the Sens, scoring his 24th goal of the season, making the game 3-1 at the end of the first.

"We seem to have good starts, but we let off the gas pedal," said Boston forward Mark Recchi,"The good thing is, though, everybody in here understands that we're not where we need to be."

Phil Kessel scored his 28 and 29th of the season last night, the game winning goal and an empty netter to solidify the Bruins sixth straight win over the Senators.

Kessel now has five goals, six points, and a plus-one in his last 10 games.

His 10 games prior to that: One points and a minus-one.

All Star center Marc Savard added to assists total with two last night, making that 12 in his last 10 games. No.91 is now tied for fourth in the NHL with 54 helpers, and is eighth overall in the league in points, with 75.

"It's important to keep in mind that we just played a team that isn't going to make the playoffs, and we just skidded by," Thomas said. "We have to get that killer instinct."

Tim Thomas stopped 25 of 28 shots that the Senators faced him with, picking up his 29th win of the season. The Vezina candidate is now 29-10-6 on the season—placing him ninth in the league—and 4-2-1 in his last seven. Thomas still has a commanding lead in the NHL in goals-against (2.08 GAA) and save percentage (.932 SV %)

Boston will host the NHL’s worst team—the Islanders-Examiner">New York Islanders (54)—in tomorrow’s matinee at the Garden.

The Bruins will next face the Ottawa Senators on April, 2, when the annual Seventh Player Award ceremony will be conducted. Go to NESN to vote for your Bruins player.

(Side note: Stephan Yelle was at practice this morning. (Check out Fluto’s blog.)

Boston Bruins Fans Have No Need To Panic

Mark Marino — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 12:41:27 -0400

After snapping a three-game losing streak on Saturday, the Boston Bruins lost their third game this month to the New York Rangers, 4-3, at Madison Square Garden.

Manny Fernandez was between the pipes for the B's—and the struggles for the net-minder continued, stopping just 26-of-30 shots he faced. Fernandez has now lost his last five games, and six out of his last seven games started.

Despite the loss, the Bruins have looked the best they have all year. Well, for 2009 anyways. For the first four games this month, the B’s have definitely re-established their aggressive play. They have out-hit their opponents every game thus far in March, by a total of 144-92.

Even with a 1-3 record, we have been catching a glimpse of the dominating team that we were so accustomed to seeing in the first half of the season. The Bruins have definitely been playing with a bit more desperation as well, averaging 32 shots-on-goal per game, while allowing just 27.

Peter Chiarelli made two fantastic moves at the trade deadline by acquiring forward Mark Recchi and defenseman Steve Montador. No blockbusters, just two solid moves without trading away any of Boston’s starting players—critical to the chemistry that the team has worked on all season long.

Recchi brings a tremendous amount to the lineup and locker room. The 41-year old veteran has been in this situation before and he knows how to win.

His left-handed shot is a key component to their power-play—and with a couple of practices with the team, he has been gelling on the third line with Patrice Bergeron and Chuck Kobasew. While only standing 6’0”, he plays like he’s about 6’4” in front of the net.

Montador was a huge addition to the Bruins blue-line. He adds a great deal of depth to the defensive core, as well as a tremendous amount of toughness and grit to the team.

Now while the Bruins have been in somewhat of a funk lately, I’m not one to push the panic button just yet. Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane and compare this years' Bruins, to the 2007-08 Stanley Cup, and President's Trophy winners, the Detroit Red Wings

October, 2008

The Boston Bruins kicked off the 2008-09 season going 2-2-3 in their first seven games, while being outscored 23-20 in that span.

The next 29 games: 25-3-1 and outscoring their opponents by a staggering 116-58. The Bruins ended the calendar year with an NHL-high, 60-points, while posting a 23-2-1 record in November and December combined.

MONTH	2007-08 RED WINGS	2008-09 BOSTON BRUINS	TOTAL POINTS
OCTOBER	10-2-1	5-3-3	21-13
NOVEMBER	7-4-1	11-1-1	15-23
DECEMBER	12-2-1	12-1-0	25-24
JANUARY	9-2-1	8-3-2	19-18
FEBRUARY	4-8-2	6-4-3	10-13
*MARCH (FIRST 4)*	4-0-0	1-3-0	8-2
TOTALS	*46-18-6*	*43-15-9*	*98-95*

Just proof that it is virtually impossible to continue playing at such a dominating level for all 82 games.

The Bruins have been on top, looking down, with not too much to lose all year. Just as they start to ease off the gas pedal a bit, other teams who are fighting for a playoff spot have turned it on. Now it’s just a matter of time before the Bruins get back to their winning ways and continue on to their playoff run.

Just 15 games remain in the regular season for the B’s. A playoff spot is a lock, the first spot in the East is near certain, and the President's Trophy would just be the icing on the cake.

The Black and Gold (95) still have an eight-point cushion over the second place New Jersey Devils (87) in the East, and a one-point lead, overall, in the NHL (San Jose and Detroit are both at 94).

(other potential/probable awards this year)

Willam M. Jennings: Tim Thomas/Manny Fernandez

James Norris Memorial Trophy: Zdeno Chara

Jack Adams Award: Coach Claude Julien

Vezina Trophy: Tim Thomas

The original article was written by Mark on the Boston Bruins Examiner page.

Bruins-Blue Jackets: Preview

Mark Marino — Tue, 10 Mar 2009 12:25:57 -0400

The Boston Bruins head into the Nationwide Arena to take on the NHL’s third-youngest team in the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Columbus is led by All-Star captain Rick Nash, who was the NHL’s Third Player of the Week.

Last week, Nash posted with four goals, two assists, and a plus-four in three games played.

No. 61 also leads all Blue Jackets with over a point-per-game (64) and shots-on-goal with 207.

The Blue Jackets are coming off a huge 8-2 victory over the Detroit Red Wings on Saturday, gaining their 72nd point while catapulting to sixth place in the Western Conference.

Rookie sensation Steve Mason is the front-runner for the Calder Memorial Trophy in the league this season, and should get the nod in net tonight. The 20-year-old leads all NHL goalies with eight shutouts, and second—only behind Tim Thomas—in GAA with 2.24.

Boston owns the best road record in the NHL at 21-9-4, but have lost their last three away from home. Tim Thomas should get the start between the pipes for the Bruins, looking to snap that streak, and continue his Vezina-like season.

Steve Montador—who was acquired by the Bruins on the trade deadline—missed the last two games with a stomach bug, but should be ready to go tonight for the Black and Gold.

Fourth-line center Stephan Yelle missed the road trip this week after taking a hard hit into the boards last Saturday against the Chicago Blackhawks. Yelle will miss his second consecutive game tonight, with rookie Byron Bitz filling in again for the ailing center.

The Bruins post a 2-0-2 all-time record in Columbus, yet are seeking redemption for their last 5-4 overtime loss back on Dec. 26, 2007.

Bruins Trade Petteri Nokelianen to Anaheim Ducks for Steve Montador

Mark Marino — Wed, 04 Mar 2009 13:13:37 -0500

TSN.com reports that the Boston Bruins have traded forward Petteri Nokelainen to the Anaheim Ducks for defenceman Steve Montador.

The 6'0", 200 lb. Montador was the team leader in penalty minutes in Anaheim (125). The right-handed defenceman has played in 65 games with four goals, 16 assists, and a plus-14.

A great deal for the Bruins. Montador plays a big, physical game, and he can certainly bang around the boards and throw his weight around. He plays both sides of the puck very well, quite underrated, and certainly adds a lot of depth to the Bruins blue line.

Montador, an unrestricted free agent, is in the final year of his $800K contract.

Mark will be covering the trade deadline for the Boston Bruins on examiner.com

Boston Bruins: A Look Ahead at the Next Five Home-Games

Mark Marino — Thu, 26 Feb 2009 13:15:57 -0500

The shortest month of the calendar year has proven to be one of the longest months for the Bruins so far. With only 28 days in February, the Bruins will have played in 13—eight away games including four of those games being back-to-back.

During this month (5-4-2), we have seen the B’s go through their longest losing streak of the season (0-2-2), more injuries, and having to read more armchair managers’ blogs on what the Bruins need to do by the trade deadline.

Thankfully, this month is coming to an end. Boston just kicked-off game-one of a six-game home-stand on Tuesday with a dominating win over the Florida Panthers. Sweet revenge for the 41-shot shutout last Saturday.

This six-game series at home should bring the out the very best of the Bruins. Boston has a healthy lineup back in place and the teams they are facing are all in the playoff mix.

Tuesday, Feb. 24

The Bruins utter domination over the Florida Panthers was a must-win. Florida has posted 14-points in the month of February so far—tied with Buffalo in the Eastern Conference for 7th place with 68-points. Only five points separate the fifth-place Canadiens (71) and the 10th place Penguins (68). A first-round preview of the Bruins vs. Panthers? Perhaps.

Tonight, vs. Anaheim Ducks

The Ducks are just 5-5 this month, but are coming off their second straight win on Tuesday, against the Buffalo Sabres. Anaheim is in a four-way-tie (65) with the Minnesota Wild, Dallas Stars and Edmonton Oilers in the Western Conference—all in a heated battle for that all-important playoff berth. With only 21-23 games remaining in the 2008-09 season, just 11-points separate the fifth place Vancouver Canucks (68) and the last place Colorado Avalanche (57). Anything can happen, so expect the Ducks to bring it to the Bruins tonight.

Saturday, Feb. 28 vs. Washington Capitals

Alexander “The Great” Ovechkin and co. return to Boston. The Caps are 7-3-1 this month and continue to be one of the hottest teams in the East. The line of Ovechkin, Nicklas Backstrom, and Alexander Semin is scary good. The trio has combined for 11 points and 39 shots-on-goal in their last three games and shows no signs of slowing down.

The Capitals are the cream of the crop in the Southeast Division with a 13-point cushion over the Florida Panthers. They also have a two-point lead for second place in the East (81) over the New Jersey Devils (79), and are tightening the gap with the top-seed Bruins (90). Washington also leads the series, 2-1, in their three meetings against the Bruins this season. All 82 games count equally, but this final regular season matchup seems to mean a lot more.

Tuesday, Mar. 03 vs. Philadelphia Flyers

There is no love-lost between the Killer B’s and the Broad Street Bullies. The series is split at one-game-a-piece, and this will be their third matchup against each other in less than four weeks. The Flyers (75) have been playing some great hockey as of late. Their 7-3-0 record in February includes their most recent back-to-back wins over the Capitals and Los Angles Kings. Just four-points behind the Atlantic Division leaders New Jersey Devils (79), Philly stands alone in fourth place in the East.

Thursday, Mar. 05 vs. Phoenix Coyotes

Wayne Gretzky and the Coyotes just can’t seem to get thing going in Phoenix. The Coyotes are second-to-last in the Western Conference (59), 3-7-0 in February; yet six points back from the 6th place Blue Jackets. The goaltending duo of Ilya Bryzgalov and Mikael Tellqvist has allowed 35 goals in their last 10 games played. Stranger things have happened, but expect the Coyotes to miss the playoffs again this year for the sixth straight season.

(Side note: The Coyotes are in serious financial troubles, like the rest of the country. An estimated $200-million loss since 2001 and an expected $30-million more this season. Commissioner Gary Bettman seriously has to look into moving this franchise back to Winnipeg.)

Saturday, Mar. 07 vs. Chicago Blackhawks:

To close out the home-stretch, Boston plays host to the young and talented, Chicago Blackhawks. Chicago is 7-4-0 this month and is locked-in at the fourth seed in the Western Conference. Their goaltending has been fantastic all year long, with Cristobal Huet and Nikolai Khabibulin splitting the time between the pipes. The Bruins won the only contest against the Hawks this season—a 2-1 shootout victory back on Nov. 12.

(Welcome back, Kris Versteeg. Two years ago, this sensational left-winger was traded from Boston to Chicago in exchange for Brandon Bochenski.)

Mark also writes about the Bruins at Examiner.com You can also listen to him on Saturday's at 2:25pm est, on 1250/900 AM in N.H., or at WGAMRadio.com

Bruins-Panthers: Boston Dominates Florida, 6-1

Mark Marino — Tue, 24 Feb 2009 23:36:14 -0500

The Boston Bruins got back on track Wednesday night by defeating the Florida Panthers in decisive fashion, 6-1, at the TD Banknorth Garden.

Rookie Byron Bitz scored two goals in tonight’s contest—his second and third goals of the season.

The crowd started to get anxious and vocal late in the third period, chanting “We want Bitz," in hopes to see a hat trick from the big fourth-liner. Bitz logged almost a minute of power play time when former Bruins defenseman Nick Boynton was sent to the sin bin for hooking.

After missing the past seven-games, second line forward Michael Ryder made a welcoming two-point debut—notching his 20th goal of the season, along with an assist on Mark Stuart’s backhand goal early in the first.

Tim Thomas got the nod between the pipes tonight, and the All-Star was nothing short of sensational yet again. Thomas stopped 24 of 25 shots he faced en route to his 27th win of the season.

The Bruins just flat-out dominated the Thomas Vokoun-less Panthers tonight—sweet revenge for their 2-0 shutout loss this past Saturday night.

Back-up goaltender Craig Anderson got the nod tonight as Vokoun was out due to illness. Vokoun has been red hot lately, posting a 6-3 record this month, three shutouts, and allowing only 15 goals in those nine starts.

Boston peppered the 28-year-old Anderson with 39 shots on goal and handing him his fifth loss of the year.

This was a Bruins team that we have come accustomed to seeing. They out-hit the Panthers tonight 23-19, with Milan Lucic leading the way with a game-high five hits.

With a healthy lineup, the win tonight to open a six-game home-stand was paramount after dropping six of their last seven games. This was a statement game, as this match-up could very well be a preview to the first round of the playoff.

Boston plays host to the Western Conference's ninth place Anaheim Ducks on Thursday.

Bruins-Lighting: Boston Heads Disappointed

Mark Marino — Sun, 22 Feb 2009 21:49:43 -0500

The Boston Bruins have had just about enough of the Sunshine State. Tonight, they dropped their second straight game in Florida, against the Tampa Bay Lightning, 4-3.

Having played in their seventh road game this month, the Bruins have dropped six out of their last seven games—only posting 10 points in their nine games this month—and are watching their lead in the Eastern Conference start to slip.

Despite the loss tonight, the Bruins played a hard-fought, physical game. Shawn Thornton broke Boston's streak of eight-straight-games without a fighting major penalty, in the first period. Mark Stuart followed Thornton's lead seven minutes later by taking on Gary Roberts in a great toe-to-toe battle late in the first.

Phil Kessel broke out of his 15-game scoreless drought by lighting the lamp first, notching his 25th goal of the season, in the first two minutes of the first period.

Like Saturday's game against the Panthers—goaltender Thomas Vokoun shutout the B's with 41 saves—the offensive aggression was there, but the Bruins just didn't have an answer for Tampa Bay's goalie Karri Ramo tonight. Ramo stopped 40 of 43 shots he faced, en route to his second win of the season.

The power-play continues to be a major concern for the Bruins as well, only scoring one PPG tonight in five attempts. This would be only the seventh PPG in their last 55 attempts: anemic.

Net-minder Manny Fernandez was incredibly shaky tonight, stopping only 14 of 18 shots that came his way. The eight days off for Fernandez may have been the cause, nonetheless, he hasn't won a game in over six-weeks (Jan. 8).

The Bruins finally head back to Boston as they kickoff a six-game homestand—three in five days to end the month—on Tuesday against the Florida Panthers, again.

Personally, I would have liked to have seen a fight at the end of Saturday's game against the Panthers. Not by means of poor sportsmanship, but for a number of positive possibilities.

1. Florida is hot, really hot. They are 7-3-0 this month, in a three-way-tie for the sixth playoff spot (68 points) and a definite first-round possibility for the Bruins.

2. Send a message. You may have beaten us, but have not beaten us up.

3. B's got shutout. Drop the gloves. The slight shift in momentum at the end of the game would definitely carry over back to Boston, on Tuesday.

4. No fighting majors in seven games. What a better time to break the streak?

On Thursday, the Bruins host the 2007 Stanley Cup winners, Anaheim Ducks. The Ducks are struggling this month as well, posting a losing record of 4-5. The Ducks are sure to bring it on Thursday, as they are tied for the final eighth spot in the Western Conference—63 points—with the Edmonton Oilers.

To end this underachieving month, the Bruins host the ever-so-dangerous Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals on a Saturday afternoon matinee. The Caps are white-hot, posting a 7-2-1 record in the month of February, and are now just seven points being the Bruins in the East.

Washington has gotten the better of the B's this season, going 2-1 in the three meeting thus far. Good thing for the Bruins is the one win against Washington has been on home ice.

The Boston Bruins: The Road Trip is Almost Over

Mark Marino — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 18:00:40 -0500

After snapping a four-game losing-streak on Tuesday night, the Boston Bruins are having a little “fun in the sun,” as well as some well-needed R&R, while they wrap up an exhausting road trip this weekend in Florida.

The Black and Gold seemed to have gotten their groove back with a 5-1 win over the Eastern Conference rivals, Carolina Hurricanes, on Glen Wesley night.

Bruins head coach Claude Julien shuffled the lines up a bit in hopes to generate a little spark with the team. Blake Wheeler was moved to the first line with Marc Savard and Milan Lucic, while Phil Kessel was dropped down to the second with new line-mates David Krejci, and Vladimir Sobotka.

The result was more than just a win for the Bruins. We got a glimpse of a Bruins team with a lot more energy, much more grit—with 30 hits—and a team that finally looked like the offensive threat that they can be while peppering Carolina goaltender Cam Ward with 34 shots on goal.

Although the Bruins hadn’t had a fighting major in their last seven games, Zdeno Chara made his presence known with a roughing penalty late in the first period. He sent a message to the Hurricanes that the Bruins refused to be pushed-over in anyway that night. By pinning Carolina’s forward Chad Larose against the boards, in retaliation to an open-ice hit on PJ Axelsson earlier in the period. I’m sure there were a few four-letter-words exchanged during the tussle, as well.

Tim “The Rock” Thomas was sensational as usual, stopping 31 of 32 shots, including a 21-shot clinic in the second period. An obvious front-runner this season for the Vezina Trophy, as the best goaltender in the league, Thomas really needs to be considered as a candidate for the Hart Memorial Trophy as the MVP of the league. No goalie has won this award since Dominik Hasek, where he won the award in back-to-back season with the Buffalo Sabres in 1997-98.

Hasek 1998: 33 wins, 23 losses. 147 GA. 2,149 Saves. 13 SO. 2.09 GAA .932 SV%

Thomas 2008-09: 25 Wins, 7 Losses. 78 GA. 1,140 Saves. 3 SO. 2.09 GAA. .932 SV%

Prior to the victory over Carolina, the Bruins were just 4-2-3 in their last nine games, while scoring only four power play goals in their last 47 attempts during that span. That anemic streak finally ended on Tuesday, as the Bruins notched two power play goals and two short hand goals (one empty-net-goal) en route to a new winning-streak.

Saturday night, the Bruins face the Florida Panthers at the BankAtlantic Center. The Panthers are 6-2 this month and are clinging on to that No. 7 spot in the East, tied with the Buffalo Sabres with 66 points. The Bruins are 2-0 this season against Florida, and have out-scored the Panthers 6-2 during those meets.

After the game, the Bruins will make the 252 mile journey up to St. Pete Times Forum to take on the Tampa Bay Lightning, at 5 p.m. on Sunday. The 49 point Lightning are 0-2 versus the Bruins this year, while being out-scored 8-4 in those two contests back in December.

The schedule looks promising and the match-ups certainly point in the favor of the B’s. The day off yesterday with a round of golf at the Weston Hills Golf Course, and a deep sea fishing adventure in sunny Florida, would make it all worthwhile with four-points to cap off this road trip.

The Bruins will return to Boston and kickoff a six-game home stretch on Tuesday, against the Florida Panthers, again.

Boston Bruins Trade Rumors: Take Two

Mark Marino — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 18:23:49 -0500

Seventeen days remain until the NHL trade deadline. The Boston Bruins are on a four game losing streak, and the injuries are just one of many issues that continue to plague the squad.

The Bruins fell victim to the Nashville Predators last night, 3-2, in the shootout, now making in four-straight losses for the Black and Gold. The B’s were without forwards Chuck Kobasew (day-to-day) and Michael Ryder (out two to three weeks) for the game, as the injuries just keep piling up.

Excluding Marco Sturm, five starting forwards for the Bruins have now missed a combined 49 games this season due to injuries (Phil Kessel, Michael Ryder, Milan Lucic, Patrice Bergeron, and Chuck Kobasew). The injury-bug has hit the B’s all season long, so this is just an ongoing dilemma that needs to be addressed.

A few players have been recalled from Providence to fill-in for the ailing starters—such as Byron Bitz, Vladimir Sobotka, and Martins Karsums—but these have only been Band-Aids covering up such large wounds.

Boston’s power play as of late has become completely anemic, just another situation that needs some serious attention. Although still ranked in the top-five in the NHL (22.2%), the Bruins have only mustered up just four PPG’s in their last 41 attempts.

While slumps, injuries, and poor production happen to all teams throughout the long NHL season, being on top of the totem-poll also comes with being under the microscope. While you don’t necessarily need a microscope to see the issues in Boston, it’s blatantly obvious that a change needs to be made here, in order to remain a threat come playoff time.

As the salary-cap remains an issue for the majority of franchises in the NHL, trading for marquis players would cost a King’s Ransom, and Boston is no exception.

Back in Feb. 2007, the Atlanta Thrashers acquired veteran forward Keith Tkachuk from St. Louis for Glen Metropolit, the first round pick in 2007, a third round pick in 2007 and a second round pick in 2008. The Thrashers ended up finishing first in the Southeast division that year, only to get swept by the New York Rangers, and watch Tkachuk sign back with the Blues.

I’m sure that’s one trade the Thrashers would like to have back.

Keeping that in mind, I think there is one unrestricted free-agent (UFA) out there who could help the Bruins with all three of their major issues. A player who’s GM mentioned that, “it might be time for a change of scenery."

Toronto Maple Leafs 28-year old forward, Nik Antropov.

The Leafs are virtually out of the playoff picture this 2008-09 season, sitting in 11th place with a mere 52-points. Plus, comments like that from the GM show that the team has all but shut-the-door on the rest of the season, and that their future is evidently more important.

A natural center, the 6’6” Antropov has come accustomed to playing the right wing position since his days on the top line with Mats Sundin. With 28 post-season appearances added to his resume, the USSR native is no stranger to hockey in May. Antropov has also benefited by playing alongside of some decent veterans in Joe Nieuwendyk and Owen Nolan.

Injuries have deterred Antorpov from showing-off his true potential, but this year he’s on pace for a career-high season. He has played in all 56 of the Leafs games this year, registering 18-goals on 150-shots on goal (SOG), with 24-assists for 42-points—on pace for 62-points. Antropov’s best season came last year where he notched 56-points on 165 SOG in 72 GP.

While his numbers aren’t staggering to look at, #80 is a big body with five PPG’s this season, something that the Bruins desperately need at forward. Along with a relatively small price tag—$2.150 million for 2008-09—this is one UFA that the Bruins need to pursuit.