Hardly anyone in Bruins' country was expecting that line to serve as the difference-maker in Game 4, but their contributions in Montreal definitely shifted the momentum and direction of this playoff series. The postseason is all about unsung heroes — so which one has impressed you the most so far?
Ryder immediately jumps to mind because of his overtime heroics in Game 4. Not only that, Ryder also opened the scoring for the Bruins in the middle frame against the Canadiens, tying the game at 1-1. The right wing has not been at his most productive for the Bruins this season, but Thursday night proved he can step up in high-pressure situations.
Chris Kelly also played a huge role in Game 4, and was especially impressive considering he wasn't sure how well he would be able to see in the matchup after suffering a facial injury in Game 3. The center proved he could see just fine, as he tallied the game-tying goal in the third period, in addition to assisting on both of Ryder's goals in the win. Kelly also scored in the Bruins' Game 3 win on Monday.
Rich Peverley's speed and set-up skills have translated well onto this line with Kelly and Ryder, as he also picked up two assists in the win on Thursday. Peverley's quickness in front of the net earned the B's the game-winning tally in Game 3, where he helped lead the B's to a 4-2 victory.
Despite that line's playoff success, we can't ignore the contributions of Andrew Ference. Whether he meant to make that obscene gesture or not, his efforts sparked the B's offense on Thursday night. The blueliner's fierce blast in the second period boosted his team and proved that Boston wasn't going out quietly in Montreal. Ference also displayed his unwavering leadership during Game 3 when he pulled Benoit Pouliot in for a fight after a "gutless" charge on Johnny Boychuk.
The playoffs are all about those special performances that can help launch a team to the next level, so who has been the unsung player for the Bruins so far? Share your thoughts below.
Thursday, April 21: Who will take charge and lead the Bruins to a series victory over the Canadiens?
Which Bruins unsung player has stepped up the most?online surveys