Boston Bruins vs Chicago Blackhawks

The Boston Bruins visit the Chicago Blackhawks as they continue their five-game road trip following a 5-3 loss to the Detroit Red Wings. The Bruins have a 23-7-2 record on the road, while the Blackhawks are 13-18-3 at home. On paper, this should be an easy win for the first-place Bruins. However, their play over the weekend series against the Red Wings showed some concerning characteristics in their game, and anything can happen on any night. The Bruins are 8-2-0 over their last ten games and became the first team to clinch a playoff berth over the weekend. Conversely, the Blackhawks are 3-6-1 over their previous ten and have lost three straight entering tonight’s game.

Bruins Showing Signs Of Complacency

While the Bruins’ season has been history in the making, their recent performances have not been great. Going back to last week, they blew a 2-1 lead over the Edmonton Oilers in the third period and ended up losing the game 3-2. Over the weekend series against Detroit, Boston fell behind early in both games. On Saturday, they were able to claw their way back from a two-goal deficit after 20 minutes to pick up a 3-2 win. Trade acquisition Garnet Hathaway tapped home the game-winning goal with 6:06 remaining in the third period. It was his first goal since coming over in a deal with the Washington Capitals.

The Bruins didn’t start well again on Sunday. This time they found themselves trailing the Red Wings 4-0 before making it interesting in the final minutes. Both games saw the Bruins’ troubled power play give up a shorthanded goal. Whether complacency is starting to creep into their game, they need to find a way to stay driven and sharp as they prepare for what they hope will be a lengthy playoff run.

Blackhawks Among Favorites For Connor Bedard Sweepstakes

Chicago is riding a three-game losing streak, but that doesn’t come as a huge surprise, considering the type of season they are having. The Blackhawks currently sit eighth in the Central Division standings, and with a 22-38-6 record, their 50 points have them only three points up on the Columbus Blue Jackets, who are in last place in the overall NHL standings. They remain poised for a high draft selection and are one of the favourites in the Connor Bedard draft lottery sweepstakes.