During a recent three-game slump, the Boston Bruins encountered scrutiny from head coach Jim Montgomery, the press, and their supporters due to their deficiency in physical play. Montgomery voiced his worries on Wednesday, expressing concerns.
The team received criticism for their lack of a cohesive defensive strategy and a stronger team mindset. This weakness was notably visible in their 7-4 loss to the New York Rangers, where Trent Frederic faced a two-handed hit to the head from Rangers defenseman Jacob Trouba. Trouba's questionable action went unpenalized by the referees and unfortunately by Frederic's teammates.
Nevertheless, in the second period of the Boston Bruins' recent game against the San Jose Sharks on Thursday evening, Trent Frederic took action to defend his captain, Brad Marchand. Despite the Bruins holding a 2-0 lead over the Sharks, at 13:57 into the second period, Sharks forward Givani Smith targeted Marchand in the corner, delivering a direct hit to his back.
Despite the erratic refereeing observed throughout the season, Smith was penalized with only a two-minute minor for boarding. Bruins defenseman Derek Forbort intervened, resulting in a two-minute minor for roughing. Nevertheless, led by Frederic, the Bruins didn't conclude their engagement with Smith. With merely 54 seconds left in the second period, Frederic actively confronted Smith. Despite initially stumbling to the ice, Frederic showed resilience, standing firm during the altercation.
POLL | ||
1 DECEMBRE | 184 ANSWERS Numerous altercations erupt in the aftermath of a dirty hit on Brad Marchand. Are you confident in the Bruins for the rest of the season? | ||
Absolutely | 135 | 73.4 % |
Not at all | 49 | 26.6 % |
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