Entering Game 7, the Bruins were expected to be carried by their top line in a must-win game. While Patrice Bergeron, scored the Bruins fifth goal Brad Marchand and David Pastrnak were held scoreless. As the Bruins have done all season, they were successful because they got contributions from everyone on the roster.
In Game 7, however, the Bruins fourth line unexpectedly had the greatest impact. After struggling early on in the series this line made its presence felt largely part due to the return of Sean Kuraly.
Early on in the series the Bruins energy line which was usually a strength was a weakness. They had a tendency to get stuck in their own zone which was most noticeable in Game 4. With Kuraly out of the lineup until game five one of Cassidy’s most trusted lines seemed lost.
That did not affect them last night however as in Game 7, in this team’s biggest game so far, they put their struggles aside and played a huge role.
A big reason for the resurgence of this line was that Kuraly recovered from a fractured right hand. While he may be undervalued on paper is impact is irreplaceable. Kuraly is a player that is good at getting loose pucks and protecting it in the offensive zone. He is also hard to take the puck away from which complements Noel Acciari and Chris Wagner well. The fourth line center has a tendency to shine on the big stage just like he did last night.
In nineteen career playoff games, the former first-round pick has five goals and three assists. Kuraly has shown the ability to come through in the clutch as one of those five goals was an overtime winner. His goal last night was not the game-winner however, it put Toronto in a 3-1 hole early in the third period. While his quick wrist shot caught, many in attendance by surprise his teammates were not. In his second game back Kuraly reminded people why he is valuable to this team.
Additionally, Kuraly is not a goal scorer as he only has fourteen goals in 154 career games. His goal last night, however, was a thing of beauty. He weaved through the neutral zone and zipped one by Frederik Anderson who seemed to be caught off guard. It also personified Kuraly’s impact on the offensive. Although he is known as wrecking ball, the Ohio native has the ability to create scoring chances. His play makes the fourth line dangerous in both zones.
As the Bruins get set to begin their series with Columbus their depth will again play a key role. They will need everyone to step up and for Kuraly to be at his best. For the former fifth-round pick that should be no issue as for Kuraly, another memorable playoff run could be in store.
