The NHL’s Most Surprising Teams: Bruins Bouncing Back Strong from Playoff Collapse, Oilers Struggling to Meet Expectations
The NHL season is well underway, and as always, there have been some surprising developments in the league. Two teams that have caught the attention of fans and analysts alike are the Boston Bruins and the Edmonton Oilers. While the Bruins have managed to bounce back from a disappointing playoff collapse last season, the Oilers are struggling to meet the high expectations placed upon them.
The Boston Bruins entered the 2020-2021 season with a chip on their shoulder after their heartbreaking loss in the playoffs. Last year, they were eliminated in the second round by the Tampa Bay Lightning, despite being one of the favorites to win it all. However, this season has seen a rejuvenated Bruins team that has come out swinging.
Led by their veteran core of Patrice Bergeron, Brad Marchand, and David Pastrnak, the Bruins have shown resilience and determination. They currently sit near the top of the East Division standings and have been one of the most consistent teams in the league. Their success can be attributed to their strong defensive play, solid goaltending from Tuukka Rask, and a balanced offensive attack.
One of the key factors in the Bruins’ resurgence has been their ability to adapt to the challenges posed by the condensed schedule and COVID-19 protocols. Head coach Bruce Cassidy has done an excellent job managing his players’ minutes and keeping them fresh throughout the season. The team’s depth has also been crucial, with contributions from young players like Trent Frederic and Jeremy Lauzon.
On the other hand, the Edmonton Oilers have struggled to live up to the high expectations set for them this season. With two of the league’s brightest stars in Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, the Oilers were expected to be serious contenders. However, they have faced numerous challenges that have hindered their progress.
Inconsistency has plagued the Oilers, particularly in their defensive play and goaltending. While McDavid and Draisaitl continue to put up impressive numbers, the team has struggled to keep the puck out of their own net. Their lack of depth beyond their top two forwards has also been a concern, as other players have failed to consistently contribute offensively.
Additionally, injuries have taken a toll on the Oilers’ roster. They have been without key players like Ryan Nugent-Hopkins and Oscar Klefbom for significant stretches, further exposing their lack of depth. The team’s special teams have also been a weak point, with their penalty kill ranking near the bottom of the league.
Despite these challenges, the Oilers still have time to turn things around. They possess the offensive firepower to compete with any team in the league, and if they can address their defensive shortcomings and receive consistent goaltending, they could make a push for a playoff spot.
In conclusion, the NHL season has provided its fair share of surprises, with the Boston Bruins bouncing back strong from their playoff collapse and the Edmonton Oilers struggling to meet expectations. The Bruins have shown resilience and consistency, while the Oilers have faced challenges in their defensive play, depth, and injuries. It will be interesting to see how these teams continue to navigate the remainder of the season and whether they can achieve their respective goals.
