Private Practice: An Exclusive Look Inside the Bruins’ Preparation for Game 4 (Photos)

With a 2-1 series lead on the Washington Capitals, the Bruins can take a big step toward advancing with a win in Game 4. But wins in the Stanley Cup Playoffs do not come easy.

That's why the Bruins hit the ice Wednesday to prepare for Thursday's game.

Washington will be missing star Nicklas Backstrom Thursday after the forward was suspended one game for cross-checking Rich Peverley in the head. The star's absence only means a sweeter opportunity for Boston, as it hopes to defend its Stanley Cup championship from 2011.

With the stage set for Game 4 in Washington, NESN's Naoko Funayama captured Boston's practice at the Kettler Capitals Iceplex.

Check out more photos from the Bruins' Game 4 preparation>>>