Bruins’ Andrew Peeke Shines in Key Role Amid McAvoy’s Absence

BOSTON — With star defenseman Charlie McAvoy sidelined, Andrew Peeke seized the opportunity to step into a larger role for the Boston Bruins, delivering a standout performance in a 6-2 victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning on Tuesday night at TD Garden.

Peeke, typically a third-pairing defenseman, logged nearly 21 minutes of ice time, contributing a goal and an assist while finishing the game with a plus-4 rating. His offensive contributions, including a key play that led to David Pastrnak’s goal, highlighted his growing confidence and versatility.

“Every player wants to be in key situations and gain trust from the coaches, and obviously your teammates, too,” Peeke said. “Being out there in important moments, it’s a good pressure to put on yourself. You just have to go out there and execute and do your job.”

Interim coach Joe Sacco praised Peeke’s consistency and physicality, noting his ability to protect the front of the net and make smart plays in the defensive zone. “He knows what he is, and he knows what he has to bring to our group every night,” Sacco said. “The next step for Peeker is getting more comfortable with the puck to execute plays coming out of our zone.”

Peeke’s offensive flair was on full display during a sequence that led to Pastrnak’s goal. He carried the puck through center ice, gained clean entry into the Lightning zone, and fired a shot that Andrei Vasilevskiy saved, only for Pavel Zacha to redirect the rebound to Pastrnak for the finish.

Later in the game, Peeke scored his first goal since joining the Bruins last season, an empty-netter that sealed the victory. Fellow defenseman Parker Wotherspoon also notched his first NHL goal, adding to the Bruins’ offensive outburst.

Goaltender Jeremy Swayman made 43 saves, anchoring a Bruins defense that was outshot 45-24. Despite the shot disparity, Boston capitalized on its opportunities, building a 4-0 lead by the second period and holding off a late push from Tampa Bay.

The Bruins, who snapped a six-game losing streak with back-to-back wins, now sit tied with the Lightning for third place in the Atlantic Division. They will face the Ottawa Senators on Saturday, with Sacco yet to decide between Swayman and backup Joonas Korpisalo in goal.

“We haven’t made a final decision yet on who’s going in the net on Saturday, but we don’t want to keep Korpi out too long,” Sacco said. “He’s done a good job for us this year, and certainly you don’t want him to go weeks without a game.”

The victory marked a turning point for the Bruins, who have struggled recently but showed resilience and depth in McAvoy’s absence. Peeke’s performance underscored his value to the team and his potential to grow into a more prominent role.