**Bruins Need To Curb Penalties For Success**

Mas Arief

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Post on Oct 26, 2024

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Bruins Need to Curb Penalties for Success

The Boston Bruins are off to a blistering start in the 2023-24 NHL season, but one glaring weakness could derail their championship aspirations: penalties. While their offense is potent and their defense is stout, the Bruins' tendency to take too many penalties is a major cause for concern.

The Numbers Don't Lie

The Bruins are currently leading the league in penalty minutes per game. This high penalty rate puts immense pressure on their special teams, particularly their penalty kill. While the Bruins boast a strong penalty kill unit, it's impossible to expect them to maintain such a high level of efficiency against every opponent, especially when facing high-powered power plays.

Impact on Game Flow

The constant penalty calls not only create scoring opportunities for the opposing team but also disrupt the Bruins' own offensive momentum. A key factor in their success last season was their ability to maintain possession and control the pace of the game. However, when they're forced to play shorthanded frequently, it disrupts their flow and allows opponents to gain the upper hand.

Addressing the Issue

Head Coach Jim Montgomery has acknowledged the penalty problem and emphasized the need for his team to focus on discipline. There are a number of ways the Bruins can address this issue:

• Increased Focus on Discipline: Coaches and players need to emphasize the importance of playing smart hockey and avoiding unnecessary penalties. This means limiting high-sticking, tripping, and slashing infractions, all of which have been major culprits in the Bruins' penalty troubles.
• Adjusting Defensive Strategies: The Bruins may need to adjust their defensive approach to reduce the number of penalties taken. This could involve more cautious positioning and less aggressive puck pursuit in the offensive zone.
• Improved Game Management: Players need to show greater awareness of the situation and avoid taking penalties in crucial moments, especially when the game is close.

Potential Downside

While a reduction in penalties would be a positive development, it's essential to ensure it doesn't come at the expense of the Bruins' aggressive style of play. They need to find a balance between playing physical and disciplined hockey, while maintaining their competitive edge.

Conclusion

The Bruins have the talent and potential to compete for the Stanley Cup, but their penalty problem could be a major obstacle. By addressing this issue head-on, they can improve their overall game and give themselves a much better chance of achieving their ultimate goal.