After a challenging start to the season, the Bruins are ready to face the Los Angeles Kings on Saturday, marking their first matinee game of the year.
On Thursday, Boston secured an exciting 6-4 victory over the Montreal Canadiens at TD Garden. Although the match had its ups and downs, it represented Jeremy Swayman’s first start following his contract extension, with several offseason signings contributing to the win.
Matthew Poitras may return to the lineup on Saturday after missing the last week of preseason and the initial two games of the regular season due to an injury.
“He’s very close, he’s progressing the right way. I would say he’s a possibility for Saturday. We just need to see how he responds later today,” Jim Montgomery shared with reporters on Friday, according to Eric Russo from BostonBruins.com.
Poitras participated in practice on Thursday and expressed eagerness to return to the ice and get his sophomore season rolling. The Bruins waived defenseman Ian Mitchell for assignment to Providence, indicating that Poitras is likely to rejoin the third line alongside Trent Frederic and Justin Brazeau. Riley Tufte is expected to be the odd player out among the forwards.
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Mason Lohrei is anticipated to return to the lineup after being a healthy scratch on Thursday. Montgomery emphasized his desire for every player to have at least one game to adjust to the regular-season pace. Lohrei will take over Parker Wotherspoon’s spot and is set to pair with Andrew Peeke.
The puck drops at TD Garden at 1 p.m. ET, and you can catch full coverage on NESN following an hour of pregame programming. Additionally, make sure to tune in after the game for a new episode of “A Century of Boston Bruins Hockey: Characters” on social media.
Below are the projected lines and defensive pairings for both teams.
BOSTON BRUINS (1-1-0)
Pavel Zacha — Elias Lindholm — David Pastrnak
Brad Marchand — Charlie Coyle — Morgan Geekie
Trent Frederic — Matthew Poitras — Justin Brazeau
John Beecher — Mark Kastelic — Cole Koepke
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Nikita Zadorov — Charlie McAvoy
Hampus Lindholm — Brandon Carlo
Mason Lohrei — Andrew Peeke
Jeremy Swayman
LOS ANGELES KINGS (1-0-0)
Alex Laferriere — Anze Kopitar — Adrian Kempe
Kevin Fiala — Quinton Byfield — Warren Foegele
Tanner Jeannot — Phillip Danault — Trevor Moore
Andre Lee — Alex Turcotte — Trevor Lewis
Mikey Anderson — Jordan Spence
Joel Edmundson — Brandt Clarke
Vladislav Gavrikov — Kyle Burroughs
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Darcy Kuemper
Bruins Look to Build Momentum Against Kings in First Matinee Matchup of the Season
Overview of the Matchup
The Boston Bruins are set to face off against the Los Angeles Kings in their first matinee matchup of the 2023-2024 NHL season. The game promises to be an exhilarating encounter as both teams look to establish their position in the league standings. With the Bruins aiming to build momentum after a series of strong performances, and the Kings looking to reclaim their competitive edge, this game is expected to be a pivotal moment for both franchises.
Why Matinee Matchups Matter
Matinee matchups have a unique charm in the NHL calendar. They provide fans with an afternoon filled with exciting hockey action, allowing families and friends to gather and enjoy the game together. Here are some reasons why these games are significant:
- Different Atmosphere: The day games often attract a different crowd, creating a lively and festive atmosphere.
- Player Performance: Some players thrive in matinee games, often adjusting their routines to perform at their best.
- Fan Engagement: Matinee games can boost fan engagement and attendance, providing a vital revenue stream for the teams.
Current Form of Both Teams
As the Bruins prepare for this crucial matchup, let’s take a closer look at the current form of both teams.
Boston Bruins
The Bruins have been showcasing impressive performances this season, largely due to their strong roster and strategic play. Here are some key points regarding their current form:
- Winning Streak: The Bruins are currently on a three-game winning streak, including a thrilling victory over their rivals.
- Star Performers: Players like David Pastrnak and Brad Marchand have been instrumental in driving the team’s offensive capabilities.
- Defensive Strength: The Bruins’ defense, led by Charlie McAvoy, has been solid, allowing minimal scoring chances against them.
Los Angeles Kings
The Kings have had a mixed start to the season, but they are a team filled with potential. Here are some observations:
- Inconsistency: The Kings have struggled to find their rhythm, alternating between impressive wins and frustrating losses.
- Emerging Talent: Young players like Quinton Byfield are beginning to find their footing, showing flashes of brilliance.
- Need for Improvement: The Kings must tighten their defense, as they have allowed too many goals in crucial situations.
Key Players to Watch
As the Bruins and Kings prepare for this exciting matchup, several players will be crucial in determining the outcome of the game. Here’s a look at some key players to watch:
| Player | Team | Stats | Impact |
|---|---|---|---|
| David Pastrnak | Boston Bruins | 10 goals, 8 assists | Top scorer, playmaker |
| Brad Marchand | Boston Bruins | 5 goals, 12 assists | Veteran leadership, experience |
| Quinton Byfield | Los Angeles Kings | 4 goals, 5 assists | Rising star, speed |
| Anze Kopitar | Los Angeles Kings | 6 goals, 7 assists | Key playmaker, clutch performer |
Historical Context Between the Bruins and Kings
The history between the Bruins and Kings is filled with memorable moments. Here are a few highlights:
- The 2012 Stanley Cup Final saw the Kings defeat the Bruins, marking a significant moment in both franchises’ histories.
- In the regular season, the Bruins have had a slight edge, winning 23 of their last 40 encounters.
- Both teams have displayed strong physical play and skill, making every matchup thrilling to watch.
Practical Tips for Fans Attending the Game
For fans lucky enough to attend the game, here are some helpful tips to make the most of their experience:
- Arrive Early: Give yourself plenty of time to navigate traffic and find parking.
- Wear Team Colors: Show your support by wearing Bruins or Kings gear.
- Plan Your Food: Make use of in-arena dining options for a true game-day experience.
- Engage on Social Media: Use game day hashtags to share your experience with fellow fans.
What’s at Stake?
Both teams understand the significance of this matchup in the context of their overall seasons:
- Momentum Building: A win for the Bruins would solidify their place as a top contender, while a Kings victory could re-establish their credibility.
- Playoff Implications: Points gained in October can be crucial as the season progresses, impacting playoff positions down the line.
- Fan Expectations: Both teams have passionate fan bases eager for early-season success; a victory could boost morale tremendously.
First-Hand Experience: A Fan’s Perspective
A recent Bruins fan shared their thoughts: “I love attending afternoon games! The excitement is palpable; it feels like a celebration. I hope to see our boys dominate the Kings!” This sentiment reflects the enthusiasm fans have for matinee matchups, making them even more special.
Conclusion
As the Bruins look to build momentum against the Kings in this thrilling matinee matchup, hockey fans everywhere are eager to see how this game will unfold. With high stakes, talented players, and a rich history between the two teams, this game is sure to be a memorable one.
