The stage was set for an exhilarating showdown at TD Garden on a memorable Monday night, as the Boston University (BU) Terriers clashed with their cross-town rivals, the Boston College Eagles, in the highly anticipated final of the annual Beanpot tournament. A vibrant crowd of 18,258 fans filled the arena, creating an electric atmosphere typical of the intense Boston hockey rivalry. For BU, the stakes were high: the chance to seize their 32nd Beanpot title, a feat they hadn’t accomplished since 2022.
At the heart of BU’s offensive onslaught was Cole Hutson, a pivotal force in the game. His second-period goal not only marked the game-winner but also solidified his impact on the tournament, ultimately earning him the MVP award. Hutson, a skilled 18-year-old forward selected in the second round of the NHL Draft by the Washington Capitals, demonstrated why he is a rising star in collegiate hockey. Alongside him, teammates Brandon Svoboda, Cole Eiserman, and Gavin McCarthy contributed to the score sheet, showcasing the depth of talent present in the Terriers’ roster.
In the net for BU was Mikhail Yegorov, who turned in an outstanding performance with a staggering 43 saves. Yegorov’s excellence extended beyond just this game; he was awarded the Eberly Award as the tournament’s best goalie, stopping 69 of 71 shots throughout the Beanpot. His .972 save percentage not only underscored his talent but also highlighted the defensive strength of the Terriers, which was crucial to their success.
Jay Pandolfo, the head coach of the Terriers, emphasized the importance of maintaining a consistent style of play that had led them to success in this tournament. His remarks after the game reflected a strategic vision for the team: “We have to stick to it,” he stated, indicating a commitment to an evolving game plan as they stride into the remainder of the season. His previous experience as an assistant with the Boston Bruins appears to have positively influenced his coaching approach, as he harnesses the strengths of his young team.
On the other side of the rink, disappointment hung heavy in the locker room of Boston College. Coach Greg Brown, a former assistant with the Rangers, acknowledged the heartbreak felt particularly by the seniors. Gabe Perreault, the lone scorer for the Eagles and a freshly drafted first-round pick of the New York Rangers, represented a glimmer of hope amid the defeat. His goal was a testament to his offensive capabilities, yet it was overshadowed by the tight defense and superior performance displayed by BU.
The result of the Beanpot final may serve as a pivotal moment for the Terriers as they move forward. With their confidence bolstered from this victory, they can harness the momentum gained in this tournament to propel their season. The blend of youthful energy and strategic coaching provides a robust foundation as they aim for success in upcoming collegiate hockey challenges. Meanwhile, Boston College will likely view this defeat as a learning experience, pushing them to regroup and refocus as they continue their season in pursuit of excellence.