The Boston Bruins have clinched the NHL’s top seed in the Eastern Conference following their monumental 5-1 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday. Not only did the Bruins set a franchise record for most wins in a season with 54, but team superstar David Pastrnak also hit the 60-goal mark, becoming the first Bruins player to reach this milestone in over 20 years. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Bruins’ remarkable season and Pastrnak’s impressive achievement.
The Boston Bruins made history on Sunday by setting the NHL’s all-time record for wins in a single season, with their 63rd victory of the 2022-23 campaign. The team’s 5-3 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers was largely thanks to David Pastrnak’s 15th career hat trick, which also saw the winger reach 300 career goals, becoming one of just eight players to achieve that feat with the Bruins. Pastrnak’s 60th goal of the season – just the fifth such campaign in Bruins history – also secured him his place among NHL’s elite, as he joined Edmonton’s Connor McDavid as the only players with 60 or more goals this season. Pastrnak is also only the fourth Bruin, and the youngest, to score 300 career goals with the club from the start of his career.
The record-breaking victory was an emotional one for Boston’s Jeremy Swayman, who made 34 saves, as it marked the second anniversary of his mentor and former University of Maine head coach Red Gendron’s sudden passing. Making his NHL debut in Philadelphia in April 2021, Swayman recorded his first career victory during the Covid-shortened 2020-21 campaign, making 40 saves. On Sunday, he ensured Brandon Bussi – who was dressing for his first NHL game – was part of the traditional victory celebration, saying “we’re all in this together”.
While the record is significant, and something the team can be proud of, their focus remains on the task at hand – rounding their game into form ahead of Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Playoffs’ opening round next week. As Bruins coach Jim Montgomery stated, “that’s gonna be our focus…not looking too far ahead, that creates anxiety.”
In conclusion, the Boston Bruins have secured their place in NHL history as they surpass their previous franchise record for most wins in a season. Their dedication and teamwork have brought them through countless challenges, ultimately leading to their historic accomplishment. Additionally, David Pastrnak’s remarkable 60th goal serves as a testament to his undeniable skill and outstanding contributions to the Bruins’ success. With the playoffs approaching, the Bruins’ remarkable season thus far hopefully translates to continued success as they compete towards their ultimate goal of a Stanley Cup championship. We can’t wait to see what this team accomplishes next. Go Bruins!
