The Boston Bruins are two years removed from winning the Stanley Cup, but enter Wednesday's Game 1 matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs with a number of questions.
The team got off to a solid start this season but stuttered near the end; Boston lost eight of its final 15 games. The ending has created a number of questions regarding whether this team can actually compete in these playoffs.
"Everyone didn't have their best season, including me. I think we're just looking forward to the new season, to the playoffs. This is when we have to be at our best," said Boston forward Nathan Horton.
"I don't think anyone was ever satisfied with our game, myself included, the players included," Bruins general manager Peter Chiarelli told the media. "It was different assessing it because normally you're used to assessing a team's play and their trends, you can watch how they practice and see what's happening in their practices. That translates into games, there's more rest and everything is more predictable."
Fortunately, the Bruins get a first round matchup against an inexperienced Maple Leafs team. Toronto will play its first playoff game since 2004.
"We've come a long way as a team the last couple of years and especially this year," said Leafs Tyler Bozak. The center has been out for the Leafs for some time, but could make his return on Wednesday evening.
Predictions: The Leafs will surprise the Bruins in the opener in what should be a thrilling opener. However, the Bruins will ultimately win the game 2-1.
Start Time: 7 PM EST
TV: CNBC
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