This season, Boston has been facing a lot of difficulties. The team has not shown consistency, which has prevented it from improving its position in the standings. Not too long ago, they found themselves outside the playoff zone, currently sitting 10th in the Eastern Conference. They were in 6th place just a short time ago, but a series of losses has derailed the “Bruins’” momentum. Recently, they managed to defeat the Rangers (6:2) and Minnesota (3:0), but after those two wins, they lost to the Rangers (2:3) and Vegas (3:4). The most recent loss to Anaheim (2:3 in overtime) at home shows that things are far from ideal for the team.
Strengths: Despite their struggles, Boston tends to perform better at home. They’ve won eight times in regulation at TD Garden, showcasing their home advantage. However, their performance on the penalty kill remains a problem. They rank 25th in the league in penalty killing, which means they often give opponents good chances during power plays.
Injuries: It’s important to note that Boston will be without key defensemen Hampus Lindholm and Charlie McAvoy in this match due to injuries. Their absence could significantly affect the team’s defense and overall stability.
Toronto, on the other hand, continues to improve its position in the standings. With 72 points, they comfortably sit in 2nd place in the Eastern Conference. However, catching the Washington Capitals for the top spot seems unlikely, as there is a 12-point gap. Despite that, the Leafs have been performing consistently, winning five of their last six games. Notably, they won against Seattle (3:1) and Carolina (6:3) in their recent outings, showing solid offensive play and a strong team effort.
Strengths: One of Toronto’s standout features is their exceptional performance in the second period, where they have a great goal difference of 70:47. This shows their attacking power and well-coordinated play. Additionally, the team excels in face-offs, winning 52.9% of them, which gives them a significant advantage in controlling the game.
Injuries: However, Toronto has its own injury issues. Pacioretty, Dewar, Järnkrok, and Hakanpaa will miss the game due to injuries. While this weakens their attack, the overall team remains strong and capable of performing well without these key players.
Looking at both teams’ current form and lineups, Toronto seems to be the more balanced team. Their attack is well-functioning, they excel in face-offs, and they have a strong second period. Despite their own injury concerns, they are still able to control the flow of the game. On the other hand, Boston is struggling with defense, particularly with the absence of two key defensemen, and it’s unlikely they will be able to showcase their best performance in this match.
Winner: Toronto Approximate score: 4-2 in favor of Toronto.
Toronto has the better offense, strong play in face-offs, and an effective second period, which provides them with additional advantages. While Boston can be dangerous at home, their issues in defense, especially during power plays, combined with the absence of two top defensemen, make Toronto the favorites in this matchup.
Recently, Toronto has been performing at a high level, showing great results both at home and on the road. Overall, the Leafs appear to be the stronger team this season compared to Boston, demonstrating more consistency. Past encounters between the two teams have generally favored the nominal favorite. The Bruins, on the other hand, come into this game in poor form and clearly haven’t yet recovered from the long break, as evidenced by their recent loss to Anaheim. Given these factors, we favor Toronto to win.
Bookmakers are offering odds of 2.85 for Boston, 4.20 for a draw, and 2.15 for Toronto. Total over 5.5 goals is offered for 1.80, total under for 2.05.
Prediction: Toronto to win at 2.10.
