Following a disappointing 2-1 loss to the Toronto Maple Leafs in Game 6, Boston Bruins coach Jim Montgomery publicly criticized star forward David Pastrnak for not living up to expectations. With the series now tied at 3-3 and Game 7 looming, Montgomery stressed the importance of top players stepping up when it matters most. While acknowledging the effort put forth by the team, he singled out Pastrnak for not delivering “big-time plays in big-time moments.”
Pastrnak, who has managed to score only two goals and four points throughout the postseason, has failed to make a significant impact on the series despite his reputation as a key offensive weapon for the Bruins. With Boston initially holding a 3-1 lead in the series, Pastrnak’s lackluster performance has raised concerns about his ability to rise to the occasion in crucial games.
The Bruins’ struggles in Game 6 were evident from the start, as they were outshot 12-1 in a lackluster first period. While they managed to pick up their game later on, Toronto’s solid defensive play limited Boston’s scoring chances and prevented them from seizing control of the game. Despite a late goal by Morgan Geekie to spoil a shutout bid by Toronto’s Joseph Woll, the Bruins were unable to overcome their slow start and were once again playing catch-up.
Boston’s inability to match Toronto’s intensity and resilience, especially in the early stages of games, has been a recurring theme throughout the series. The impact of missing opportunities and failing to capitalize on crucial moments has left the Bruins in a precarious position as they head into a must-win Game 7. Montgomery emphasized the need for his team to start games with more urgency and energy in order to avoid a repeat of past disappointments.
The Bruins find themselves in a familiar position, as they are once again on the brink of squandering a commanding series lead. Reminiscent of their collapse against Florida in the previous postseason, Boston is now facing a resilient Toronto team that has seized the momentum in the series. Montgomery’s call for accountability and a sense of urgency reflects the team’s desperation to avoid a repeat of past failures and to salvage their postseason aspirations.
The Bruins’ fate in Game 7 rests heavily on the shoulders of David Pastrnak and the rest of the team’s top players. As they look to redeem themselves and secure a spot in the next round, they must heed Montgomery’s call for improved performance and a greater level of commitment to executing their game plan. The outcome of the series will ultimately be determined by the Bruins’ ability to rise to the occasion and deliver when it matters most.