Bruins Notes: Boston Couldn't Match Desperation In Game 5 Loss

Maple Leafs defeat Bruins 2-1 in OT, keeping season alive. Boston coach points to Toronto's desperation as key factor.

The Toronto Maple Leafs pulled off a thrilling 2-1 overtime victory against the Bruins in Game 5, keeping their season alive and forcing a Game 6. From the opening shift, the Leafs displayed a level of intensity and skill that outmatched the Bruins in every aspect of the game. Boston head coach Jim Montgomery attributed the difference in the game to Toronto's sense of "desperation," acknowledging that his team simply wasn't up to par.

Bruins captain Brad Marchand echoed Montgomery's sentiments, admitting that the Leafs were the better team on the ice that night. Despite a tied score after the first period, the Bruins struggled to keep up with the Leafs' aggressive play, as evidenced by the lopsided shot count in favor of Toronto.

Montgomery emphasized the need for his team to refocus and regroup heading into Game 6, acknowledging that the Leafs had outperformed them in Game 5. While disappointed in the missed opportunity to close out the series, Montgomery stressed the importance of moving forward and focusing on the next game.

Despite the setback, Marchand remained optimistic, recognizing the challenges of clinching a series and emphasizing the need for his team to stay in the moment and be prepared for the next game. The Bruins' penalty kill remained a bright spot, successfully shutting down Toronto's power play opportunities for the third consecutive game.

Looking ahead to Game 6, the Bruins will aim to bounce back and secure a spot in the next round of the playoffs. With lineup changes and adjustments on the horizon, Montgomery remains confident in his team's ability to rise to the occasion and deliver a strong performance in the upcoming game. As the series heads back to Toronto, both teams are gearing up for another intense battle on the ice, with the Bruins looking to close out the series and advance to the next round.