INTENSITY BOILS OVER: Bruins vs. Canadiens Brawl Early, Montreal Skates Away with Important Win

Opening Faceoff Fight Sets Tone for Night of Emotion and Hockey Action

The Boston Bruins and Montreal Canadiens lived up to their long-standing rivalry on Tuesday night in Boston, as tensions boiled over early and often, leading to two fights in the first period alone.

“It was a big, old-fashioned hockey game,” said Montreal coach J-F Damien.

The first fight came at the opening faceoff, with Bruins forward Tanner Jeannot and Canadiens forward Josh Anderson dropping the gloves in a bout that lasted over a minute.

Midway through the first period, Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov and Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj followed suit, with each team picking up four minor penalties in the frame.

Canadiens Score Four Unanswered Goals, Hand Bruins Fourth Straight Loss

But while the fights served as a source of entertainment for the crowd, it was the play on the ice that ultimately determined the outcome of the game.

The Canadiens took a 3-2 lead into the third period, but it was all Montreal from there. The visitors added four unanswered goals, including two on the power play, to secure a 6-2 victory.

The win was a crucial one for the Canadiens, who entered the night tied for third in the Eastern Conference with 43 points. The Bruins, meanwhile, have now lost four in a row and five of their last six games, allowing 12 goals in their past two defeats.

Bruins’ Star Defenseman McAvoy Remains Sidelined

Adding to the Bruins’ woes is the continued absence of star defenseman Charlie McAvoy, who has missed almost a month after being hit in the face by a slap shot in their previous meeting with the Canadiens on Nov. 15.

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The Boston Bruins’ power play, which went 1-for-4 on Tuesday night, has struggled of late, converting on just 2 of its last 18 opportunities with the man advantage.

Did you know?

The Canadiens have won eight of the past 10 meetings between the two Original Six teams, including four in a row at the TD Garden.

What’s Next?

The Bruins will look to bounce back on Thursday night when they host the Toronto Maple Leafs, while the Canadiens will aim for a third straight win on Thursday when they welcome the Carolina Hurricanes to the Bell Centre.

Final Thoughts

The Bruins and Canadiens lived up to their long-standing rivalry on Tuesday night, but it was Montreal who skated away with a crucial two points and some momentum as they jockey for position in the Eastern Conference standings.

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Contributing: The Associated Press