Talking Points: Perfection Line Shines, Bruins Hold Off Sharks 4-3

GOLD STAR: The Perfection Line – In what can sometimes be a matinee trap for the Boston Bruins over the years, ‘The Perfection Line’ made sure the Bruins weren’t about to have their usual day game thud. Marchand continued his torrid start to the season as he lit the lamp just 28 ticks into regulation. Bergeron grabbed the primary assist and Pastrnak snagged the secondary. Just 2:50 later, Marchand factored into the scoring again as he set up Boston Bruins defenseman Derek Forbort for his first goal with the Bruins. Fellow rearguard Connor Clifton had the other helper. Pastrnak then got his second goal of the season with a powerplay tally at 16:12 of the opening frame for a 3-0 Bruins lead. Despite the Sharks scoring a powerplay goal 32 seconds later, the best line in the NHL had once again set the tone.

Bergeron to Pastrnak on the PP 🍝 pic.twitter.com/Ussl6uoqie

— Marina Maher (@marinakmaher) October 24, 2021

BLACK EYE: The Third Period – While the Bruins didn’t suffer their usual slow start, either they got caught up watching Patriots highlights on the bench or they got a bit cocky because the last ten minutes of regulation were hairy! With the Bruins seemingly in cruise control just over halfway through the third period, the Sharks finally came to life. They got two tip-in goals from Tomas Hertl and Timo Meier in a span of 1:49, and suddenly the Bruins were clinging to a one-goal lead with 4:52 left. They thankfully held the fort down but if they had capitalized on some scoring chances earlier in the period, they wouldn’t have been in that situation.

TURNING POINT: The First Period – With the Sharks finding their way late, the strong start turned out to be huge. If the Bruins had come out flat like they usually do in day games, we could be analyzing their second loss of the season but instead, we’re dissecting how they won and improved their record to 3-1-0 on the season.

HONORABLE MENTION: Derek Forbort – In his fourth regular season game with the Bruins, Forbort, known for his defensive game, scored a goal and assisted on DeBrusk’s second period goal. Playing on the third pairing with Connor Clifton, Forbort showed that he has some offensive flair and can make a successful pinch to create offense. Forbort also played a pivotal role in holding off the Sharks late rally with two blocked shots in the third period.

BY THE NUMBERS: 30 – Number of times Bergeron, Marchand and, Pastrnak have all had 2+ points in the same regular-season game (tied for the most among current teammates). *Per NHL PR

QUOTE TO NOTE: 

“I just think that sometimes things go your way. You get bounces at the right time. I actually don’t think I’ve played my best hockey. Regardless of the points, I think I can be better and manage pucks better, felt tired a few games. I still think I can be better than what I’ve been…points are part of it obviously. I want to be happy with where I’m playing and how I’m playing and I’m not quite happy enough yet with how things have been.” – Brad Marchand when asked about his start to the season.