Bruins Struggle to Hold Leads Amid Defensive Challenges

BOSTON — The Boston Bruins faced a significant challenge on Tuesday night, as they struggled to maintain a lead against the Toronto Maple Leafs, ultimately losing 5-4 in overtime at TD Garden. The match marked the Bruins’ fourth consecutive defeat and increased concerns over their postseason prospects with just 23 games remaining in the regular season.

Without key defensemen Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm for the past nine games, the Bruins have relied heavily on 24-year-old Mason Lohrei. In the game against the Maple Leafs, Lohrei played a major role, logging a team-high 22:05 of ice time and contributing two assists, one of which led to David Pastrnak‘s goal just 29 seconds into the match.

“I mean a world-class pass,” Pastrnak said regarding Lohrei’s assist. “I was surprised it landed right on my stick. I didn’t give it many chances with those two guys diving for the puck.”

Despite Lohrei’s offensive contributions, his defensive miscues contributed to Toronto’s counterattacks, including a pivotal error that allowed Mitch Marner to score the game-winner in overtime after another tie. Bruins interim head coach Joe Sacco acknowledged Lohrei’s effort, stating, “Mason did a lot of good things tonight, especially early on.”

The match initially seemed to be in the Bruins’ favor, as they built a 3-0 lead in the second period, highlighted by power-play goals from Morgan Geekie and Brad Marchand. However, Toronto responded aggressively, tying the game by scoring three consecutive goals.

“The most frustrating thing is we take the lead 4-3, and we still weren’t able to close,” Pastrnak lamented. “It’s tough to have this second point hanging on the table and let them grab it.”

With the defeat, the Bruins now sit at 27-24-8 overall, leaving them in danger of missing the postseason for the first time since the 2015-16 season. Bruins captain Brad Marchand emphasized the importance of securing every point, saying, “We can’t be giving up points right now.”

Jeremy Swayman made 24 saves in the loss, although he acknowledged the importance of focusing on the positives after a tough game. “You don’t want to give up a lead and lose a point, but we got a point. That’s what we focus on,” Swayman stated.

Pastrnak’s two goals and an assist extended his point streak to 15 games, cementing his position as a crucial player for the Bruins with 30 goals this season. The next challenge for the Bruins comes against the New York Islanders on Thursday at 7 p.m. ET, where they hope to break their losing streak and regain momentum before the postseason.