Boston Bruins coach Jim Montgomery decided to change things up before the crucial Game 7 against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
With the Bruins facing the challenge of potentially squandering another series lead, Montgomery felt a different approach was needed.
Instead of staying in their own homes, the team spent the night before the game in a hotel and traveled together to TD Garden.
Montgomery wanted to eliminate any distractions that could affect the team’s performance. He remembered advice from former New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick about the importance of staying focused, which influenced his decision.
This change may have been the key to the Bruins’ success, as they rallied to tie the game and eventually won in overtime with a goal from David Pastrnak.
Montgomery aimed for a strong team effort from the start when the Bruins took a 3-1 lead against Toronto.
Pastrnak also had a much-needed breakthrough in this game. He had four shots on goal, a significant improvement from his performance in the previous six games where he only managed two goals and two assists.
His skill with the puck was crucial in boosting Boston’s offense during the third period and overtime.
Pastrnak expressed relief and happiness after the win, emphasizing the team’s unity throughout the series.
With goaltender Jeremy Swayman performing exceptionally well, the Bruins advanced to the next round. Since Montgomery stuck with Swayman from Game 3 onwards, he has consistently kept the opponents to two goals or fewer in each game.
Montgomery credited Swayman as the standout player of the series, highlighting his crucial role in the team’s success.
This victory spared the Bruins from an unwanted record of being the first team in NHL, NBA, or MLB history to lose consecutive best-of-seven series after leading 3-1.
Reflecting on the experience, Montgomery believes the team has grown stronger. He sees it as a valuable lesson that will benefit them in future games. He also noted the unpredictable nature of the first round in playoff series, though this year had fewer Game 7s than usual.
