Jeremy Swayman shines in net, propelling Bruins to thrilling 3-2 victory

The Boston Bruins won their second game of the season by killing penalties and scoring on the power play.

The future of the 2023-24 Bruins is uncertain, but it appears that they will excel at penalty killing and may even be effective on the power play. In their game against the Nashville Predators, the Bruins struggled on their first three power plays, but managed to score two power-play goals and successfully kill seven penalties to secure a 3-2 victory. Jeremy Swayman, the Bruins' goalie, made 33 saves and outperformed Juuse Saros, who made 28 saves for the Predators. James van Riemsdyk, known for his skill near the net, scored his first two goals as a Bruin thanks to his expertise in that area. The Bruins took a total of seven penalties in the first two periods, with Brandon Carlo leading the team with 7:21 of shorthanded ice time and Charlie McAvoy making the most blocks.

Coach Jim Montgomery praised the effort of the penalty killers and the support of the knowledgeable fans, who recognized the importance of blocked shots and Swayman's saves. The team received a tremendous ovation after one penalty kill, which elevated their spirits. The Bruins took the lead in the third period with their second power-play goal of the game, scored by van Riemsdyk off a wrist shot from McAvoy. Despite the Predators' attempts to equalize, the Bruins and Swayman were able to hold them off for the win.

This game showcased how the Bruins will find success this season. It won't be as easy or as pretty as their dominant 65-win season last year, but with strong goaltending, a solid defense, and a winning mentality, the 2-0 Bruins will be a formidable opponent on most nights. Whether they can exceed expectations remains to be seen.

Van Riemsdyk emphasized the importance of finding a way to win, even if the game wasn't the prettiest. The Bruins once again gave up the first goal of the game, but were able to bounce back. Sissons scored the opening goal for the Predators after a good save from Saros and a quick transition onto offense. The Bruins faced adversity after taking three consecutive penalties in the first period, but managed to kill them off. Their first power play of the game resulted in a goal, with van Riemsdyk banking the puck off defenseman Dante Fabbro to tie the game.

Van Riemsdyk came close to giving the Bruins the lead in the second period, but Saros made an impressive save. The Bruins then went back into kill mode when Jakub Lauko received a double minor penalty, but they successfully killed off both penalties. Milan Lucic had a breakaway opportunity but was denied by Saros. The Bruins continued to take penalties, but managed to kill them off until Lindholm's tripping penalty resulted in a goal by Sissons to tie the game again.

In the third period, the Bruins played disciplined hockey and capitalized on the opportunities given to them. They had two more power-play chances to secure the win, but were unable to convert. However, they were able to hold off the Predators, even with Saros pulled for the extra skater, and secured their second win of the season.

Overall, the Bruins showed resilience and determination in their victory over the Predators. They demonstrated their ability to adapt and find ways to win, even when faced with challenges. With their strong penalty killing, solid goaltending, and winning mentality, the Bruins have the potential to be a formidable team this season.