Bruins Lose in Minnesota: Fernandez Not Sharp!

The Boston Bruins got their first loss of the season Saturday, dropping falling to the Minnesota Wild by a score of 4-3. 

Manny Fernandez would love to have the second period back, as he let in three goals that all could have been stopped.  Manny went on to say after the game that sharpness is still what he is missing in his game.

I know it is just the second game, but admitting that your game is not sharp or that you may not be ready isn't building any confidence with anyone.

Coach Claude Julien decided to start Manny in the second game after Tim Thomas stood on his head in the opening game against Colorado, saving pretty much anything that got thrown at him.

It is early in the season and I am sure Julien was trying to get the rotation and the tandem going in some kind of direction.  I think we will see this for the next few games and see who will emerge as the clear No. 1.

Boston also was reminded that they have to play 60 minutes of hockey and not just 20 minutes in the first period and 20 minutes in the third period.

Boston will be back at it at the Bell Centre in Montreal for the home opener of the 100th season of the Montreal Canadiens.  Game time is 7 p.m. on Wednesday night.

Game Notables

-Marc Savard and Michael Ryder are getting more and more comfortable with each other.  Savard had a great pass to Ryder for a quick one-timer goal. 

-Blake Wheeler had another strong game.  He is going to be a good one this year.  His size is a major factor in his game.  Wait until this kid matures.

-Phil Kessel had another strong game.  I think Kessel has figured out his game and how to pay it in the NHL.  He is shooting from the high slot and scoring.  You couldn't have asked for a better way to start the season.

-Defense is still struggling a bit and chasing a bit in their own zone. 

-Andrew Ference had a couple of great rushes with the puck end to end in which he was about three strides ahead of everyone.  I hope he keeps playing this offensively.