Tuukka Rask Happy to Play Hero Instead of Expletive-Filled Alternative After Game 7 Win

BOSTON — Tuukka Rask was one of a handful of heroes on Monday in the Bruins’ Game 7 win over the Toronto Maple Leafs. It sure beats the alternative.

Rask made the big saves at the right time in Boston’s 5-4 come-from-behind overtime win, and because of it, they’re moving onto the second round. But it didn’t come without some tense moments and feelings of doubt. Those feelings obviously intensified as the Bruins fell behind 4-1 early in the third period.

However, the B’s battled back to eventually tie the game with just seconds to play. That was made possible by a big save from Rask, who made what turned out to be a huge save to keep the Bruins within two when it was 4-2. That set the stage for Milan Lucic and Patrice Bergeron to score in the final two minutes, improbably sending the game to overtime.

Of course, it’s never easy to play in OT, especially in a Game 7 and especially if you’re a goaltender.

“It’s do or die,” Rask said of overtime. “You have to make a save. You’re either a hero or you’re an [expletive].”

Rask made two saves in overtime as part of a 24-save performance in the win.