Three most likely first-round playoff opponents for Bruins originally appeared on NBC Sports Boston
The Boston Bruins haven’t locked up a spot in the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs just yet, but they will at some point soon, thus extending their postseason appearance streak to eight years (which would tie the Toronto Maple Leafs for the longest active streak).
At this point last season, we knew the B’s would finish first in the Atlantic Division and claim the Presidents’ Trophy. We pretty much knew that would happen in January, frankly.
This year is different. The Bruins could still finish atop the division (and even repeat as Presidents’ Trophy winners), but placing second behind the red-hot Florida Panthers is a more likely scenario. There are four or five teams the Bruins could realistically play in the first round of the playoffs, depending on where they finish.
Here’s a breakdown of the Bruins’ three most likely playoff opponents as of Wednesday, March 13.
Toronto Maple Leafs
The best-case scenario for the Bruins is playing against the Maple Leafs in Round 1. Sure, the Leafs are super-talented and boast more offensive skill than just about any team. Auston Matthews is going to hit the 60-goal mark again and could win the Hart Trophy for the second time.
But the Bruins have a clear advantage on the blue line and in net. The B’s also have a mental edge over their division rivals, which was clear in last Thursday’s showdown at TD Garden, where Boston extended its win streak over Toronto to seven games.
The Leafs tried to be physical, led by Tyler Bertuzzi, who was pushing and shoving his former teammates after every whistle. If that’s the way the Leafs are going to play if these teams meet in Round 1, the Bruins should feel very fortunate. Boston would love to play that kind of game against Toronto, especially at home.
Last Thursday’s matchup could be thrown away by the Leafs because it was the second night of a back-to-back and multiple players had the flu. But these teams played just three days earlier in Toronto and the score was exactly the same. As a result, the B’s swept the four-game season series.
The Bruins aren’t going to sweep the Leafs if they meet in April. Toronto is way too talented and has enough offensive firepower — at 5-on-5 and the power play — to erase pretty much any deficit. But the Bruins’ goaltending advantage and playoff experience are huge factors in their favor.
And even though the B’s have won just 16 of their last 30 home playoff…