The Boston Bruins blew a two-goal lead late in the third period and eventually lost 6-5 in a shootout Saturday afternoon at the Canadian Tire Centre. Tim Stutzle scored the lone goal in the shootout to lift the Ottawa Senators in a crucial Atlantic Division showdown.
Pavel Zacha (PPG), David Pastrnak, Morgan Geekie, John Beecher and Vinni Lettieri scored for the Boston Bruins. Meanwhile, Josh Norris scored twice, while Adam Gaudette, Tim Stutzle and Nick Jensen added goals for the Senators.
Here’s a look at the three least impressive Boston Bruins players from their loss to the Ottawa Senators.
3 least impressive Boston Bruins players from SO loss to Ottawa Senators
#1. Andrew Peeke
Andrew Peeke has been a steady presence in the Bruins' top-four defensive core, but he had a rough outing Saturday. He registered a minus-2 rating over 26 shifts, despite logging over 20 minutes of ice time and notching one goal.
Peeke was on the ice late in the game attempting to defend a one-goal lead but, along with his teammates, stood idly as the Senators moved the puck around and eventually netted the equalizer.
The Bruins missed Charlie McAvoy’s steadying presence on the blue line, which was evident in Peeke’s struggles.
#2. Elias Lindholm
Elias Lindholm continues to struggle offensively. On Saturday, Lindholm went scoreless and failed to register a shot on goal in more than 21 minutes of ice time over 26 shifts.
Lindholm’s lack of a dangerous presence was apparent throughout the game, as he struggled to contribute to the Bruins’ attack. His inconsistency this season has been concerning, and Boston needs more reliable production from him if the team hopes to secure a playoff spot.
#3. Brad Marchand
Bruins captain Brad Marchand is another top-six forward who has struggled this season. Against the Senators, Marchand finished with a minus-1 rating, recorded just one shot on goal in 23 shifts and totaled 19:20 of ice time.
Marchand looked lost and fatigued down the stretch. In the final moments of the third period, he barely moved as the Bruins tried to contain the Senators, who were desperately seeking an equalizer.
In overtime, Marchand failed to make an impact and did not get an opportunity to shoot during the shootout, contributing to the Bruins’ loss.
The Bruins will get a chance to rebound when they face the San Jose Sharks. Boston is locked in a battle for the third spot in the Atlantic Division, with the Senators nipping at their heels.