Bruins-Lightning: Boston Loses, Again

The Boston Bruins have now lost their last six-of-seven games tonight, against the second worst team in the league - Tampa Bay Lightning - 3-1.

Finally, the Bruins showed some sort of offense, by firing 36 shots on-goal tonight. The only problem, Lightning goalie Mike Smith stopped 35 of them.

The Bruins could have Ken Dryden - in his prime - playing for them in net. That would not matter. Yet, the fact remains that they haven't been able to put the puck in-the-net whatsoever.

Hence my demise for the acquisition of Marian Hossa. I think Phil Kessell, Manny Fernandez, Glen Murray and a draft pick would have easily sealed-the-deal for Hossa.

But no!

The powers-that-be in Boston decided to ride with what they got. And what it got them, is now, a ten-game chase to make the playoffs. Zdeno Chara missed his 3rd straight game due to an upper-body injury. But, the B's worries don't lye in the net, or on the blue-line.

Sure, the goal-tending as of late, has been suspect. But, it's the lack of offensive power that has been the Bruins demise.

I just hope that head-coach Claude Julien doesn't get the shaft this year with the B's, like he did last season with the Devils - especially so late in the season. He has done wonders for this club, and it would be a shame if he gets the boot - playoffs or not.

The Bruins(80 points) are back in action at home on Saturday, against the 8th place division rivals, Philadelphia Flyers(79 points), at 1pm, est.

With the Capitals(74), Maple Leafs(74), Sabres(75) and Panthers(74) breathing down the necks of the 7th and 8th spot, this is an absolute must-win for the Bruins.