In Game 3 of the 2021 Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Boston Bruins earned a crucial win against the New York Islanders. The win helped the Bruins break a 1-1 tied series, giving them a 2-1 series lead.
Game 3 Review
Most of the game was pretty slow in terms of scoring goals for both teams, until the third period. The Boston Bruins took a 1-0 lead all the way into the final frame of the game. Both teams played their part both offensively and defensively all game long, but it was until the third period when the New York Islanders finally scored.
Mathew Barzal was able to tie the game up for the Islanders, giving them some hope that they wouldn’t end up losing.
While this was a positive sign for the Islanders, it became evident that the Bruins began picking up the pace as they realized the stakes were being raised higher.
The Bruins began kicking into full action mode, outshooting the Islanders 21-9 in the last period. In addition, Bruins goalie Tuukka Rask made some excellent saves to ensure that the Islanders had little to no opportunities for scoring.
In overtime, things really began heating up. Both teams played tougher than ever before, especially the Islanders. They picked up the pace on their defense, only allowing the Bruins to record two shots on net during the extra time.
While this was a high point for the Islanders, the second shot was the one that would give the Bruins the OT win.
The goal was scored by Brad Marchand. He was able to score outside of the left circle, which is at least six feet from the goal line. The puck flew past the gloves of Islanders’ goalie Semyon Varlamov and into the net, providing the Bruins with the win at 3:36 of overtime.
Preview of Game 4
As the Bruins take on a 2-1 series lead, they have some more optimism built up. They will feel more confident that they can take Game 4 to increase their lead and, eventually, eliminate the Islanders from the playoffs.
The playoffs are always very important for both teams, whether they’re leading the series or trailing. But for both respective teams, Game 4 is going to be huge.
Saturday’s game will mean that the Bruins can pick up another win and take a commanding 3-1 series lead. In contrast, the Isladers have the opportunity to tie the series up. If they do so, they can keep their race to the Stanley Cup Finals alive.
There are some huge opportunities available for both teams. Let’s see who will be able to reap the benefits of those opportunties.
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