PREVIEW

Just the Facts

Who: The Boston Bruins host the Toronto Maple Leafs for the first game of this all-Atlantic Division playoff series.

What: Toronto has upgrades to flaunt on offense. Boston boasts the best line in hockey. Can the defense keep up?

When: 7:00 PM ET

Where: TD Garden, Boston, MA

How to watch: NBCSN, TVAS, CBC, SN, NESN

Rival SBN site: Pension Plan Puppets

Know Your Enemy

Team Leaders

None. All are equal. The best season in hockey is JUST STARTING.

Game Notes

• If you haven’t already, and you’re as ready for puck drop as WE are, get your eyes through Shawn’s advanced previews. He’s already done a better job than I will in illustrating the matchups between these teams and their schemes. (Had to do it. No regrets.) The key system matchups are examined with special focus on the transition game.
• While you’re at it, ask yourself the question: with the regular season gone, is the Bruins starter set in stone? Does Cassidy do the improbable and rotate? (Hint: No. But, maybe he should.)
• Some danger lies in the defensive depth for Boston. Connor Clifton has been EATING minutes, but does he have the confidence to boost his play up a notch or two? Torey Krug still doesn’t quite looked like his best self since coming back from injury, either. Let’s hope the bit of rest after the regular season has helped not just him but everyone on the B’s roster.
• By the grace of Patrice, MARCHAND, DON’T LICK ANYBODY. Or pick another weird “distraction”. Please bless Brandon Carlo’s ankles and Matt Grzelcyk’s arms.

Get yer hype on, because it’s...

GAAAME DAAAYYYYY