Here are the three keys to the Bruins' not relinquishing a 3-1 series lead for the first time since 2004.
1. Get the first goal
The Bruins have allowed the first goal in each of the five games in this series. They got away with it three times and even erased a two-goal deficit twice. But in Game 5, it finally caught up with them. One of the main reasons is that the B's were playing a desperate Buffalo team facing elimination, a team searching for just the slightest bit of momentum on which to build. The Bruins can't give the Sabres that window of opportunity. Getting the first goal could be just what they need to put them out to pasture.
2. Find the lanes to the net
Whether it be shooting whenever possible or simply driving to the net and creating space for those shots to get through to Ryan Miller, the Bruins must find a way to get more shots and more consistent scoring chances. The Buffalo defense was like the Great Wall of China from the blue line in Game 5, blocking an amazing 26 shots. The Bruins can't take too long looking for the path to the net, and when they find it, they can't hesitate to shoot.
3. Don't think, just play
The Bruins need to come into this game blocking out what's at stake. Obviously that's easier said than done, but they can't worry about the fact that this is a game they maybe shouldn't have to play or that they'll have to go back to Buffalo if they lose. One of the key elements of their three wins in this series has been that the Bruins live in the moment and don't look back or ahead. That needs to be the motto Monday night.
