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The Boston Bruins' four-game winning streak came to an abrupt end on Thursday night as they fell to the Montreal Canadiens 5-2 at TD Garden. Montreal seized control early, building a lead that proved insurmountable despite a late push from the Bruins.
Here are three key observations from the defeat.
Montreal's Defense Shines
While the Canadiens' offense was potent from the opening puck drop, their defensive unit also delivered a standout performance in the 5-2 win. Montreal blocked a total of 23 shots, compared to just six for Boston. Defenseman Kaiden Guhle led the way with five blocks, and 13 different Canadiens recorded at least one blocked shot, with six players registering multiple blocks.
Casey Mittelstadt Provides Lone Offensive Spark
Forward Casey Mittelstadt was responsible for all of Boston's scoring, netting both Bruins goals. His first came at 14:53 of the second period, and his second at 0:53 of the third. Elias Lindholm assisted on both markers, while Nikita Zadorov picked up an assist on the first goal and Will Borgen on the second. With the two-goal effort, Mittelstadt now has seven goals and five assists for 12 points on the season.
Jeremy Swayman Endures Rough Night
Goaltender Jeremy Swayman had his most challenging outing of the season, surrendering four of Montreal's five goals before being pulled midway through the second period in favor of Michael DiPietro. Swayman stopped 13 shots for a .765 save percentage, his lowest of the year, and it marked the fourth time this season he has allowed four goals in a game. Despite the rough performance, Swayman holds a 2.42 goals against average, a .913 save percentage, and a 9-4-1 record in 14 appearances.