Major Take Aways From Bruins 5-4 Loss To The Red Wings

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Austin Sabourin
November 5, 2023 (11:54)

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In their first 10 games of the season, the Boston Bruins showcased resilience with a 9-0-1 record. However, their winning streak came to an end as injuries and Charlie McAvoy's suspension finally took their toll in a game against the Detroit Red Wings.

After establishing a 2-0 lead in the opening period, the Bruins faltered in the subsequent periods, allowing the Red Wings to rally for a 5-4 victory, marking Boston's first regulation loss of the season. Here are three key takeaways from the game.

Charlie Coyle's Consistency

Charlie Coyle has been a reliable presence for the Bruins over the last couple of seasons, especially in crucial moments. In this game, he once again played a significant role for the team.

During a challenging second period in which Boston was outplayed, Coyle's redirection of a pass from Jake DeBrusk led to a vital goal, temporarily giving the Bruins the lead. While it wasn't enough to secure the win, Coyle's performance was an encouraging sign for the team.

Puck Management Woes

Throughout the game, the Bruins struggled with puck management. Passes were off the mark, and players often left the defensive zone before properly clearing the puck, leading to opportunities for the Red Wings.

The third period saw Detroit capitalize on the Bruins' puck management issues, scoring three consecutive goals to take a 5-3 lead. Surviving such lapses for 40 minutes was remarkable, but it ultimately cost them in the third period. Solid puck management will be crucial, especially against strong opponents like the Red Wings.

Penalty Troubles

Boston's penalty troubles resurfaced in this game, and Detroit capitalized on the opportunities. Lucas Raymond scored a power-play goal in the first period, and Jake Walman's tally in the second tied the game during a man-advantage. Detroit converted on two of its eight power plays, ultimately providing the momentum to stay in the game.

On the other hand, the Bruins' power play was less effective, with their only goal coming from David Pastrnak in the third period. Maximizing power-play opportunities and minimizing time spent in the penalty box will be key for the Bruins this season, given their less potent offense compared to the previous season.

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