Coming off two straight losses to the Wild and Rangers where they surrendered two third period leads at home, the Bruins must travel Winnipeg Jets who have surprised many people this season with a 19-9-3 record for 41 points, good for 3rd in the Central Division. The Bruins have also had four straight games go into Overtime or further. This goes to show you how competitive the NHL is right now, teams don't simply roll over and lose. Being one of the best teams in the league, the Bruins will always have a target on their back, and with a mere 7 points separating 1st place and being out of playoffs in the Eastern Conference, every game counts. A small losing streak could spell disaster for any team that goes on one.
Luckily, this is a very good Bruins team, with leaders like David Pastrnak, Brad Marchand and Charlie McAvoy. They have outstanding goalies in Ullmark and Swayman. These are the type of players that stop losing streaks from happening, who put the team on their back and charge forward. Lurking on the other side tonight is the upstart Winnipeg Jets, who have only three fewer points then the Bruins. The Jets are a complete team, albeit with only average special teams' units. Connor Hellebuyck has the third best record among goalies, with the 8th best goals against average in the league and an above average save percentage of .916. They may not have the superstar that David Pastrnak is, but they have balanced scoring with five players already surpassing the 20-point mark. Rick Bowness has his squad buying into the system and playing at a high level. The Bruins will have their hands full, will they be able to bounce back and pick up a much needed win to stay ahead in a very competitive division? We will find out tonight at 8:00pm in Winnipeg.
