People will say that the pressure is on the Bruins to finish, and yes, it is true that the clincher is always the toughest win. But the Bruins are in the driver's seat and control their own destiny.
Here are three keys to success to get the job done and eliminate the Flyers.
1. Follow the game plan from Game 3.
The Bruins did a great job of withstanding the Flyers’ initial onslaught in the first period of Game 3, answering a very early 1-0 deficit with two quick goals. They then rode the success of Tuukka Rask once again and frustrated the Flyers, who completely outplayed them in the second period. The B’s need to do that again and follow the bend-but-don’t-break mentality, while still attacking at the same time.
2. Don’t look ahead.
The Bruins have done a great job of living in the moment, not looking behind or ahead. They must try to block out the fact that a win will land them on the cusp of the Stanley Cup finals, as they will be one of two teams remaining in the the Eastern Conference race. They must focus on the task at hand and get the job done.
3. Don’t get dragged into shenanigans if game gets out of hand.
Should the Bruins take a lead large enough so the Flyers believe they can’t come back, Philly may try to goad the Bruins into some shenanigans by taking runs at them. The Bruins need to protect themselves, but there is no need for suspensions from losing their cool. Play it safe and take numbers for next season.
