As if the 2026 NHL Stadium Series wasn’t dramatic and electric enough, Jeremy Swayman of the Boston Bruins and Andrei Vasilevskiy of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-lightning">Tampa Bay Lightning</a> dropped the gloves—or rather the trapper and the blocker, as well as their masks.



What’s more uncommon than NHL games being played outdoors? Goaltenders dropping the gloves and throwing haymakers at center ice. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/how-many-fans-are-attending-lightning-vs-bruins-2026-nhl-stadium-series-today">Fans attending the 2026 Stadium Series</a> at Raymond James Stadium were treated to both spectacles during a candid showdown between the Lightning and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins">Bruins</a>.



With Tampa Bay looking for a spark to mount a comeback down 5-2, Vasilevskiy decided to take matters into his own hands by skating down to Boston’s zone where chaos erupted. However, not many predicted what would unfold next. Both goaltenders dropped their equipment and engaged in an all-out boxing bout.



When it was all said and done, both goalies were seen smiling and congratulating one another. After all, they had just given fans what they didn’t even knew they wanted to see. Back on each team’s benches, their teammates were having a blast, as well.



<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">GOALIE FIGHT AT THE <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/STADIUMSERIES?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#STADIUMSERIES</a> 🇺🇸: <a href="https://twitter.com/espn?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@espn</a> ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/m0LyTCHYnH">https://t.co/m0LyTCHYnH</a> 🇨🇦: <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Sportsnet</a> &amp; <a href="https://twitter.com/TVASports?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@TVASports</a> ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/4KjbdjVctF">https://t.co/4KjbdjVctF</a> <a href="https://t.co/OSydD4j1cq">pic.twitter.com/OSydD4j1cq</a>— NHL (@NHL) <a href="https://twitter.com/NHL/status/2018137398861832385?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 2, 2026</a></blockquote></div> 



<h2>Are goalie fights back?</h2>



All in all, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> has seen the number of fights decline in recent years. Long gone are the days of enforcers being employed solely for their fighting skills. As fights have become less frequent, goalie fights have grown almost extinct. 


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On January 19, 2026, Sergei Bobrovsky and Alex Nedeljkovic delivered the first goalie fight in nearly six years. The last time two netminders had engaged in a fight was when Alex Smith of the Edmonton Oilers and Cam Talbot of the Calgary Flames dropped the mitts back on Feb. 1, 2020. Exactly six years later, Vasilevskiy and Swayman reenacted the scene, only this time it was in the 45th outdoor regular-season game in league history.



This time around, a rivalry like the Battle of Alberta wasn’t necessary to raise the stakes. Andrei Vasilevskiy took a page out of the book of a fellow Russian, two-time Stanley Cup–champion goalie from a Florida-based franchise, as he went after Jeremy Swayman during the 2026 NHL Stadium Series. Needless to say, this game will be remembered across the league as one of the best regular-season matchups of the decade.

Video: Goalie fight unleashes during Lightning vs Bruins 2026 Stadium Series

Video: Goalie fight unleashes during Lightning vs Bruins 2026 Stadium Series - Bolavip US

miniaturas

Though the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are no longer playing, Raymond James Stadium is gearing up to allocate thousands of fans as the Tampa Bay Lightning host the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins">Boston Bruins</a> in the 2026 Navy Federal Credit Union NHL Stadium Series.



The outdoor matchup in the Big Guava will bring to a close a month-long chapter of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> action played outside the elements in the Sunshine State. The celebration began on Jan. 2, when the Florida Panthers faced the New York Rangers in the Winter Classic at loanDepot Park. Now, the Bolts will take on the Bruins in what’s set to be the first-ever outdoor game held in a football stadium in Florida.



While the Panthers found little success playing outdoors, the red-hot <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-lightning">Lightning</a> are hoping to change the tune as the Spoked B rolls into surprisingly frigid Tampa weather. Fans in attendance will have to brave unprecedented low temperatures, hoping they’re rewarded with an unforgettable victory.



<h2>Fans attending NHL Stadium Series</h2>



Raymond James Stadium is expected to be near capacity when the 2026 Stadium Series gets underway between the Bolts and the Bruins. While the venue typically holds around 65,000 fans for NFL games, that number can be increased for special events. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/01111957/raymond-james-stadium-2-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-571558"></figure><figcaption> General view of Raymond James Stadium ahead of Stadium Series</figcaption></figure>



According to Emily Kaplan of ESPN, around 63,000 fans are in attendance at Raymond James Stadium as the Bruins and Lightning do battle out in the Bay. As of Sunday morning, only a handful of non-resale tickets were still available. Thus, the Lightning and Bruins can expect a sold-out crowd when the puck drops at Ray Jay Stadium.


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However, with Central Florida under an extreme weather warning, some ticket holders may be forced to stay home. Needless to say, those who do attend will likely set new personal records for the number of layers they bundle up in. At least, they will be in for a great show after learning <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl/whos-performing-at-lightning-vs-bruins-2026-nhl-stadium-series-today">who will be performing at the 2026 Stadium Series</a>.



<h2>Record attendance for Stadium Series</h2>



While the roughly 75,000 fans expected to attend the 2026 Stadium Series would place this year’s edition near the top, it would still fall well short of the attendance record. As it stands, the 2025 Stadium Series between the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Detroit Red Wings holds that mark, drawing 94,751 fans at Ohio Stadium.



The 2024 Stadium Series, meanwhile, amassed approximately 150,000 fans, though that figure combines attendance from the two games that made up the event: the New Jersey Devils vs. the Philadelphia Flyers on Feb. 17, 2024, and the New York Islanders vs. the New York Rangers on Feb. 18.


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How many fans are attending Lightning vs Bruins 2026 NHL Stadium Series today?

How many fans are attending Lightning vs Bruins 2026 NHL Stadium Series today? - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/tampa-bay-lightning">Tampa Bay Lightning</a> and Boston Bruins will close out the outdoor rink season in the NHL with a matchup at Raymond James Stadium in the 2026 Stadium Series. With the two sides set to face off under the elements—if they can even be called that in Central Florida—fans wonder which artists will perform throughout the evening.



Tampa and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins">Boston</a> are in for a long-awaited Atlantic Division showdown when the puck drops at Raymond James Stadium. The Bolts and the Spoked B are both currently sitting in a playoff spot, but the race in the Eastern Conference is jam-packed. Therefore, the tiniest slip up could prove costly. 



Outdoor games are rare in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a>—and showdowns in Tampa are even more uncommon. As a result, fans know they’re in for a treat, with the league planning different shows throughout the game.



<h2>Who will perform during Stadium Series?</h2>



Fans attending Raymond James Stadium in Tampa—and those watching from their cozy couches at home—will be treated to a first-intermission show headlined by Grammy Award-winning artist Tim McGraw. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/01101430/tim-mcgraw-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-571523"></figure><figcaption>Tim McGraw will perform during the first-intermission show</figcaption></figure>



Along with the star-studded squads facing off on the ice, fans who brave the freezing temperatures in the Big Guava can expect a top-tier performance from one of the best country singers and songwriters in the world. 


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<h2>McGraw appeared in similar event before</h2>



McGraw had recently performed prior to the MLB Speedway Classic, which was held at Bristol Motor Speedway. Needless to say, the Louisiana native has a knack for these special sporting events.



McGraw truly does the term “artist” justice, having written best-selling books while also appearing in films such as Friday Night Lights and The Blind Side. Though Raymond James Stadium will look quite different than it does during the NFL season, it’s a fitting stage for him to perform in an iconic football venue.



<h3>Who will sing the national anthem before the 2026 Stadium Series?</h3>



As two American sides will go head to head in the 2026 Stadium Series, only one national anthem will be played before puck-drop. On that note, the ‘Star-Sprangled Banner’ will be performed by R&amp;B/Soul and country artist Hunter Hayes.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/02/01102018/hunter-hayes-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-571528"></figure><figcaption>Hunter Hayes</figcaption></figure>



As it stands, no additional shows or artists have been confirmed by the NHL. However, the possibility of a surprise singer joining McGraw during the first intermission—or later in the night—can’t be ruled out. ESPN has also announced that former Philadelphia Eagles center Jason Kelce will serve as a special correspondent during the broadcast. Who knows? Give Kelce a microphone long enough, and he might sing a tune or two.



Either way, despite the chart-topping artists performing throughout the game, neither the Lightning nor the Bruins have time to be distracted. All that matters is coming away with a victory amid a tight playoff race.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="697f6fa270a943df4bc929de" data-title="Which song will McGraw open his first-intermission show with?" data-options="5"></div>

Who’s performing at Lightning vs Bruins 2026 NHL Stadium Series today?

Who's performing at Lightning vs Bruins 2026 NHL Stadium Series today? - Bolavip US

Coming into the season with low expectations, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins">Boston Bruins</a> have definitely caught the NHL by surprise. Now, the Bruins are exploring every option to make sure they clinch a ticket to the Stanley Cup Playoffs—and go on a deep run while they are at it. In that regard, rumors have emerged indicating New Jersey Devils defenseman Dougie Hamilton could return to Beantown.



However, a return to Boston may not exactly be on the cards for Hamilton. The 32-year-old blueliner was drafted ninth overall in the 2009 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> Draft, but it seems he has no interest in re-entering the Bruins’ building.



According to a report from Jimmy Murphy, Hamilton has made it clear he doesn’t want to return to Boston. The report even goes as far as saying Hamilton “hated it in Boston.”



<h2>Hamilton was traded by Boston</h2>



Despite putting up impressive numbers during his first years in the league, Hamilton’s time in Beantown was somewhat short-lived. Reports suggest Hamilton had pushed hard to be traded out of the Bruins in the first place, which ultimately led to his move to the Calgary Flames ahead of the 2015–16 NHL season. A decade later, Hamilton is reportedly uninterested in seeing the story come full circle.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://media.bolavip.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2026/01/27082056/dougie-hamilton-1-1920x1080.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-569161"></figure><figcaption>Dougie Hamilton of the NJ Devils</figcaption></figure>



With a return to Boston looking highly improbable, Hamilton’s numbers with the Bruins will likely stay put at where he left them after the 2014-15 campaign. In 178 appearances with the ‘Spoked B’, Hamilton recorded 83 points, with 22 goals and 61 assists.


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<h2>Hamilton’s contract</h2>



Although reports of him being traded out of New Jersey have been loud for a while now, the Devils have yet to pull the trigger. That is largely because Hamilton has the final say. 



Signed to a seven-year, $63 million contract that runs through the 2027–28 season, Hamilton’s deal includes a no-movement clause (meaning he can’t be sent to the AHL or waived without his approval) and a 10-team trade list. While the teams on that list remain unknown, based on the latest reports, the Bruins don’t appear to be an organization that made the cut.

Bruins’ former first-round pick reportedly makes final decision on return to Boston

Bruins’ former first-round pick reportedly makes final decision on return to Boston - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/brad-marchand">Brad Marchand</a> didn’t mince words in a heated exchange with one former teammate in the NHL. During the Florida Panthers’ statement 4-0 victory over the Dallas Stars, the veteran forward showed his true thoughts on a player he won the Stanley Cup with in 2011.



In many ways, Tyler Seguin and Brad Marchand’s style of play show much resemblance. Perhaps, it’s the fact both were drafted and molded early in their careers by the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins">Boston Bruins</a>. The two were a part of the Stanley Cup-winning roster in Beantown in the 2010-11 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl">NHL</a> season. 



However, it looks like all love has now been lost between the two veterans. That was made clear after reports emerged of what Marchand said to Seguin during the game at the American Airlines Center in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dallas-stars">Dallas</a>, Texas. 



“Feels like yesterday when you came into the league a little baby boy. You still act like a baby boy,” Marchand told Seguin, as reported by The Dallas Morning News’ Lia Assimakopoulos on X.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251214_BUS_545253_tyler-seguin_cb5b8b0e.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-545274"></figure><figcaption>Tyler Seguin during his time with the Bruins</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Back on track</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/florida-panthers">Panthers</a> desperately needed to turn the page after losing in embarrassing fashion to the Colorado Avalanche. Suffice to say, defeating Dallas 4-0 on the road provided just what Florida hoped—and more. 


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Though it’s been far from an ideal season, the Panthers have now won four of their last five outings. They will hope to ride the wave of momentum as the Cats return to the Sunshine State, but to take on the Tampa Bay Lightning at Benchmark International Arena in the Big Guava.



Florida must turn the tide, though. The Panthers have struggled against the Atlantic Division so far in the 2025-26 NHL campaign, recording a 2-4-0 mark against divisional foes. Moreover, the Bolts defeated the Cats 3-1 in the first ‘Battle of Florida’ of the season. In more ways than one, the reigning Stanley Cup champions have some ground to make up.

NHL News: Brad Marchand fires candid shot at former teammate on Stanley Cup-winning roster

NHL News: Brad Marchand fires candid shot at former teammate on Stanley Cup-winning roster - Bolavip US

Marchand fires candid shot at former teammate on Stanley Cup-winning roster

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins">Boston Bruins</a> are heading out on a three-game road trip, bringing some positive news for fans as defenseman Charlie McAvoy travels with the team for the first time since suffering a serious facial injury in mid-November. Head coach Marco Sturm also noted that forward <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/david-pastrnak">David Pastrnak</a> would be joining the team after his own absence.



McAvoy, 27, underwent facial surgery following a slap shot from Noah Dobson that fractured the left side of his face. The Bruins have gone 5–5–0 since McAvoy’s injury, highlighting the impact of losing a key defensive leader.



In his first full update since Thanksgiving, McAvoy, via Scott McLaughlin, described his recovery: “Getting it back. One day at a time, but every day I feel better, so keep doing that. We’re getting the chance to do more, skate more, skate longer, and work out off the ice. All those things.”



<h2>McAvoy reflects on the injury and recovery</h2>



The initial aftermath of the injury was particularly challenging. McAvoy revealed he immediately realized the severity, learning he had sustained a linear fracture and lost several bottom teeth.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251209_BUS_542286_bruins_16845331.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-542399"></figure><figcaption>Geekie #39 of the Bruins, center, celebrates with Zacha #18 and McAvoy #73 after scoring. Maddie Meyer/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



He was limited to liquid foods for weeks, losing 20 pounds before regaining roughly half that weight and strength. “It’s been one of the weirdest injuries I’ve ever had,” McAvoy said. “The feeling of having so much trauma in your mouth. It’s a wild feeling.“


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<h2>Bruins hopeful for McAvoy’s return to action</h2>



McAvoy and Pastrnak will join the Bruins on their upcoming stops in St. Louis, Winnipeg, and Minnesota, with McAvoy hopeful for game action at some point during the trip. Before the injury, he had 14 points (all assists) in 19 games and led the team in ice time at 23:46 per night.


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“We’ll see,” McAvoy said. “Going on the trip with the expectation and hoping that at some point along the way on the trip I’ll be able to get back in.“ The Bruins will face the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/st-louis-blues">St. Louis Blues</a> on Tuesday, with puck drop scheduled for 8 p.m. ET.

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NHL News: Bruins' Charlie McAvoy provides first recovery update ahead of road trip - Bolavip US

Bruins' McAvoy provides first recovery update ahead of road trip

NHL teams with the most Stanley Cup playoff appearances: From the Canadiens to the Bruins

Players with the most Stanley Cup playoff appearances: From Chris Chelios to Wayne Gretzky

Which player holds the record for most goals in an NHL game?

NHL teams with the most Stanley Cup playoff appearances: From the Canadiens to the Bruins - Bolavip US

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/detroit-red-wings">Detroit Red Wings</a>, under coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/todd-mclellan">Todd McLellan</a>, finally found their footing on Tuesday night, snapping a four-game losing streak with a 5-4 victory over the Boston Bruins. After a challenging stretch, Detroit showcased resilience and execution that gave fans hope for the second half of the season.



Moritz Seider led the charge with a goal and two assists, while Alex DeBrincat and Lucas Raymond each contributed a goal and an assist. Veteran goaltender John Gibson made 34 saves to halt a seven-start winless stretch (0-5-1), cementing a performance the team desperately needed.



“That was a real roller coaster of a game for a goaltender,” Red Wings coach McLellan said, according to <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/boston-bruins-detroit-red-wings-game-recap-december-2-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHL.com</a>. “It wasn’t easy, but [Gibson] got us a win. That has to be good for his confidence.”



<h2>How did Detroit adjust to beat Boston?</h2>



The Red Wings opened the scoring early, with James van Riemsdyk finding the net at 6:52 of the first period. Seider followed with a point shot that slipped through traffic, making it 2-0 by the end of the opening frame. Detroit maintained control despite Boston’s attempts to respond, including Alex Steeves’ first-period goal.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">RayRay on the POWER PLAY. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/LGRW?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#LGRW</a> <a href="https://t.co/3oJw6CZyUj">pic.twitter.com/3oJw6CZyUj</a>— Detroit Red Wings (@DetroitRedWings) <a href="https://twitter.com/DetroitRedWings/status/1996039447658324347?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 3, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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DeBrincat’s second-period strike pushed the lead to 3-0 before Jonathan Aspirot and Steeves narrowed the gap. Gibson made critical saves late in the frame, helping Detroit preserve its advantage. Lucas Raymond’s power-play goal early in the third period gave the Red Wings a 5-2 cushion, ultimately holding off a late Boston push.


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<h2>Bruins’ struggles in the rematch</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins">Bruins</a>’ offense was led by Steeves, who scored twice, while Hampus Lindholm and Morgan Geekie added multiple assists. Goaltender Jeremy Swayman allowed five goals on 23 shots before being replaced by Joonas Korpisalo in relief. 


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Bruins coach Marco Sturm admitted his team’s start hurt their chances. “It just wasn’t sharp in the first period,” Sturm said, noting that Swayman had faced difficult defensive coverage.

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NHL News: Red Wings' Todd McLellan reveals key factors after ending four-game skid vs Bruins - Bolavip US

Red Wings' McLellan reveals key factors after ending four-game skid vs Bruins

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins">Boston Bruins</a> face a lineup shakeup as they prepare to take on the Detroit Red Wings at Little Caesars Arena. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/david-pastrnak">David Pastrnak</a>, the team’s leading scorer, will miss his third consecutive game due to an undisclosed injury, leaving a noticeable gap in Boston’s offensive structure. His absence comes at a pivotal moment as the Bruins aim to maintain momentum in the Atlantic Division.



Meanwhile, Viktor Arvidsson is expected to return after missing seven games with a lower-body injury. His presence could help offset Pastrnak’s absence, providing a key boost to the Bruins’ lineup as they face Detroit. 



Coach Marco Sturm emphasized caution, stating, “It’s still day to day.” He said according to <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/nhl-status-report-news-and-notes-december-1-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHL.com</a>. “We were hoping he could skate by now, but he didn’t. So, that’s why. We’ll see how it is the next few days, but he will not travel.”



The Bruins must now adapt without their top forward, who leads the team with 29 points (11 goals, 18 assists) in 25 games. Adjustments to the forward lines aim to maintain scoring opportunities and defensive coverage throughout the game.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251202_BUS_537797_david-pastrnak-bruins_4dc74d6d.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-537800"></figure><figcaption>David Pastrnak #88 of the Bruins skates against the Maple Leafs . Maddie Meyer/Getty Images</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Will Pastrnak return soon for the Bruins?</h2>



Pastrnak’s status remains uncertain, and the Bruins are monitoring his recovery closely. His return will depend on how he responds over the next few days, with the team avoiding any rush back onto the ice to prevent further injury.


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<h2>Bruins’ adjustments without Pastrnak</h2>



Boston will likely adjust its forward lines to compensate for Pastrnak’s absence while welcoming back Arvidsson. The adjustments aim to maintain balance in scoring opportunities and defensive coverage throughout the game.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="692ed86be2d53b59fb2f03ee" data-title="How much will Pastrnak’s absence impact the Bruins against Detroit?" data-options="4"></div>

Bruins’ Marco Sturm comments on David Pastrnak’s status ahead of Red Wings clash

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NHL News: Bruins' Marco Sturm provides injury update on David Pastrnak ahead of game vs Red Wings - Bolavip US

Bruins' Sturm provides injury update on Pastrnak ahead of game vs Red Wings

NHL News: Bruins’ Marco Sturm provides injury update on David Pastrnak ahead of game vs Red Wings

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-rangers">New York Rangers</a>, under the guidance of head coach Mike Sullivan, have bounced back in style, completing a commanding two-game road sweep after a rough stretch earlier in the week. Facing depleted Eastern Conference rivals, the Blueshirts demonstrated depth, precision, and poise, pulling off a 4-2 victory over the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/carolina-hurricanes">Carolina Hurricanes</a> before cruising past the Boston Bruins, 6-2, at TD Garden.



Despite the absences of key Bruins players such as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/david-pastrnak">David Pastrnak</a>, Charlie McAvoy, Pavel Zacha, and Matej Blümel, these wins carry weight in the standings and set the tone for the Rangers’ confidence moving forward. A strong showing in these matchups also reassured fans that the team can capitalize on opportunities, even against challenging lineups.



The second leg of the sweep saw the Rangers break the game open in the second period, firing 17 shots on Joonas Korpisalo while limiting the Bruins to just five. Mika Zibanejad scored two power-play goals just 45 seconds apart, giving New York a 4-0 cushion heading into the third. Head coach <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mike-sullivan">Sullivan</a> noted the importance of staying disciplined and maintaining intensity despite holding a significant lead.



<h2>How did Sullivan assess the sweep?</h2>



“The power play, obviously, was the difference maker in the game,” Sullivan said. according to The New York Post. “After they outplayed us early in the second period, we responded. Everything we talked about between periods, we tried to set out to do. Playing a simplified game and forcing them to work 200 feet for scoring chances was key.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">GAVI TIPS AND SCORES 🔥 <a href="https://t.co/NQfyPwCyyG">pic.twitter.com/NQfyPwCyyG</a>— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) <a href="https://twitter.com/NYRangers/status/1994506242933567887?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 28, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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Sullivan praised the Rangers’ ability to stay composed after the Bruins scored, emphasizing the importance of maintaining focus and executing their game plan. “You’re almost guarding against human nature where you want to exhale and you can’t in today’s game,” he added.


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<h2>Key takeaways from the road sweep</h2>



The sweep gives New York momentum and demonstrates the team’s capability to dominate even against strong opponents when executing well. Special teams and disciplined defensive play proved decisive, while the Rangers’ depth allowed them to weather minor threats without losing control.


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The Rangers will aim to carry this form into their next stretch of games, with the coaching staff stressing the importance of consistency and focus on both ends of the ice.

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NHL News: Mike Sullivan reflects on NY Rangers victory over Bruins to complete road sweep - Bolavip US

Sullivan reflects on NY Rangers victory over Bruins to complete road sweep

NHL News: Mike Sullivan reflects on NY Rangers victory over Bruins to complete road sweep

Making his return to the lineup after a multi-week absence, Toronto Maple Leafs star <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Auston Matthews</a> voiced an honest message. Much has been said about the hit he took from Boston Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov, but the forward in Hogtown has now addressed the controversial incident in the 2025-26 NHL campaign.



Whenever the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Maple Leafs</a> and Bruins meet on the ice, tempers flare. That was the case when Matthews and the Buds lost 5-3 to the Spoked B at the TD Garden. However, the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Bruins</a> might have crossed a line when Zadorov landed a big hit on Matthews, sending the visiting captain head-first against the boards.



Due to the aggressive hit, Matthews was sidelined for two weeks, effectively missing five games for the Maple Leafs in the current <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHL</a> season. Now that he’s back in the lineup, it didn’t take long for the captain to be asked about Zadorov’s hit. On that note, Matthews delivered a very sincere statement.



“I’m three feet away from the boards and he hits me in the numbers. I know his game, he likes to play hard, and you respect that. Maybe I could’ve put myself in a better position knowing he’s out there,” Matthews admitted per TSN’s Mark Masters on X (formerly Twitter).



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251126_BUS_534175_auston-matthews-2-1_dc6028a0.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Auston Matthews warming up before a game" class="wp-image-513391" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Auston Matthews #34 of the Toronto Maple Leafs against the Montreal Canadiens</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Matthews speaks on his physical health</h2>



“It’s been a tough couple weeks, but I think over the last four, five days or so, skating, practicing, started to feel really good day after day. Stacked some positive momentum and feel like I’m ready to go,” Matthews stated.


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No player in the NHL ever wants to miss time. For Matthews, being sidelined cuts even deeper. As the face of a franchise burdened with sky-high expectations, he carries the weight of a city starving for its first Stanley Cup in over half a century. Toronto can’t afford to wait much longer—and all eyes remain fixed on Matthews to lead the way.



<h2>Matthews misses games for 9th straight season</h2>



Matthews appeared in all 82 games during his rookie year in the 2016-17 NHL campaign. However, he hasn’t recorded a full-season since. Instead, the Leafs’ captain has missed games year after year. Since the 2017-18 season, Matthews has now missed a total of 88 games for the Maple Leafs.

Leafs News: Auston Matthews sets record straight on injury hit with bold message to Bruins’ Nikita Zadorov

Leafs News: Auston Matthews sets record straight on injury hit with bold message to Bruins’ Nikita Zadorov - Bolavip US

Matthews sets the record straight with bold message on hit from Bruins’ Zadorov

Contrary to most predictions coming into the NHL season, Marco Sturm and the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Boston Bruins</a> are putting on a show in the 2025-26 campaign. Sitting among the top teams in the Eastern Conference, the Spoked B will be put to the test as defenseman Charlie McAvoy has been sidelined.



Sturm and the Bruins have taken the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/nhl" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHL</a> by surprise. Not many expected Boston to be near the top of the Atlantic Division one quarter into the season. However, through 21 games, the Bruins are still among the best sides in the league. Still, missing its best blueliner, the Spoked B will now be facing significant adversity.



After taking a puck to the face during the Bruins’ 3-2 win over the Montreal Canadiens, McAvoy underwent surgery. The medical procedure will sideline him for an indefinite period in the 2025-26 NHL season. On that note, Sturm provided an injury update on the 27-year-old defenseman.



“[McAvoy’s] doing good. He’s recovering right now at home, and we still don’t know how long he’s going to be out for,” Sturm told reporters, according to NESN. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251120_BUS_530513_Marco-Sturm_533e9dbe.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="" class="wp-image-498105" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Marco Sturm during a game</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Adversity is inevitable</h2>



Sooner or later in any NHL season, every team must overcome hurdles and challenges. Those who make it out prove they belong in the postseason; those who don’t must settle for the promising look of next season.


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Now, Sturm’s Boston has reached its first checkpoint to prove the Bruins belong at the top. In order to weather the storm, the first-year bench-boss will need to see an increased production from some players.



“Other guys have to step up, I think that’s the bottom line,” Marco Sturm concluded on the injury crisis Boston is now facing, via <a href="https://www.nhl.com/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHL.com</a>. “It can’t [only] be [Nikita] Zadorov and [Hampus] Lindholm.”



<h2>Injured players in Boston</h2>



The Bruins are currently missing key pieces to their puzzle, with Elias Lindholm (lower body), Viktor Arvidsson (lower body), Casey Mittelstadt (lower body), and Jordan Harris (ankle surgery) all placed on Injured Reserve (IR). 



As the players on the Spoked B look around the dressing room at TD Garden, it’s easy to grow anxious seeing so many faces missing. However, Sturm is determined to keep the team’s spirits high, voicing a confident message for the Bruins.



“Every team goes through it and unfortunately it’s us right now,” Sturm noted. “When you talk to players, they always want ice time, they always want playing time, they hate to be scratched, and this and this and that. Well, this is their opportunity.”



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1920" height="1080" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20251120_BUS_530513_charlie-mcavoy_d0e7536d.webp&amp;width=1920&amp;height=1080" alt="Charlie McAvoy #73 of the Boston Bruins" class="wp-image-516823" sizes="(max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px"></figure><figcaption>Charlie McAvoy at TD Garden on October 21, 2025 in Boston, Massachusetts.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Sturm must weather the storm</h2>



What started off as a magical rebound season is now dangerously close to becoming a nightmare ride into the abyss. Sturm—making his debut as an NHL head coach—must now take an intensive course in crisis and group management, as the players begin to grow frustrated and the season threatens to go off the tracks. 



Only time will tell whether Sturm can steer his team back on course amid the frenzy. If not, it may be his bags that are packed and tossed into the Boston Harbor in a 21st-century edition of the Boston Tea Party.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="691e5b442d286e1484d5eb26" data-title="Will Boston make the Stanley Cup Playoffs this season?" data-options="2"></div>

Bruins News: Marco Sturm breaks silence on Charlie McAvoy with post-surgery injury update

Bruins News: Marco Sturm breaks silence on Charlie McAvoy with post-surgery injury update - Bolavip US

Bruins News: Sturm breaks silence on McAvoy with post-surgery injury update

The Toronto Maple Leafs were hit with a double setback during Tuesday night’s game against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins">Boston Bruins</a>, as captain <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a>, who has 14 points in 16 games this NHL season, including 9 goals and 5 assists, left the ice following a hit from Bruins defenseman Nikita Zadorov. 



Matthews exited during a TV timeout in the second period while Toronto was down 4-1, leaving the team to evaluate. Goaltender Anthony Stolarz was also removed from the game, leaving Dennis Hildeby to finish in net.



Toronto’s official PR account confirmed that both Matthews and Stolarz were dealing with upper-body injuries, but no further details were immediately available.



“This marks the second time a Maple Leafs player has left the game due to a Zadorov hit,” noted The Hockey News reporter David Alter. “Forward Scott Laughton also left the ice after being hit by Zadorov in Saturday’s game against Boston.”



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Auston Matthews went to the locker room after taking a hit by Nikita Zadorov. <a href="https://t.co/zIeg8e3E6y">pic.twitter.com/zIeg8e3E6y</a>— Sportsnet (@Sportsnet) <a href="https://twitter.com/Sportsnet/status/1988427144037363803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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<h2>Zadorov addresses the hit on Matthews</h2>



NHL veteran Nikita Zadorov offered his perspective on the hit, describing it as part of a routine play rather than an intentional attempt to injure the Maple Leafs captain.


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“I didn’t really hit him,” Zadorov said, according to <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/toronto-maple-leafs-boston-bruins-game-recap-november-11-2025">NHL.com</a>. “I hit him with my right shoulder, and 99 percent of my hits in the NHL are with my right shoulder. I’m not sure what hit he got hurt on. Like, when he came after me again, I counter-hit him, or maybe when I cleared the puck I hit him with the puck, so we’re not going to speculate on that. 



He added: “It was just routine. I didn’t really want to hit him. I wanted to prevent him from taking the middle and I just stood there. You can see on the video I hit him with my chest. There was no intention to hurt him. I just play hard against top players on the other team. That’s my job.”



<h2>Matthews’ status and implications</h2>



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Maple Leafs</a> will continue evaluating Matthews’ condition, and it remains unclear if he will miss any extended time. Losing the team captain could significantly affect Toronto’s lineup, especially given the ongoing challenges in balancing their roster after recent injuries. 


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="691486d22d286e1484d5ea5f" data-title="What should the Maple Leafs do if Auston Matthews misses extended time?" data-options="4"></div>

Bruin's Nikita Zadorov breaks silence on controversial hit that injured Auston Matthews

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NHL News: Bruins' Nikita Zadorov breaks silence after Maple Leafs' Auston Matthews leaves game following hit - Bolavip US

Bruins' Zadorov breaks silence after Maple Leafs' Matthews leaves game following hit

NHL News: Bruins’ Nikita Zadorov breaks silence after Maple Leafs’ Auston Matthews leaves game following hit

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/boston-bruins">Boston Bruins</a> continued their dominant form, defeating the Toronto Maple Leafs 5-3 at TD Garden on Tuesday to secure their seventh consecutive win. <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/david-pastrnak">David Pastrnak</a> scored both his 400th and 401st NHL goals, adding an assist as the Bruins improved to 11-7-0. 



Toronto, meanwhile, struggled with injuries, losing <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/auston-matthews">Auston Matthews</a> midway through the second period to a lower-body issue. Goaltender Anthony Stolarz exited in the first period due to an upper-body injury, replaced by Dennis Hildeby, who made 19 saves. The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/toronto-maple-leafs">Maple Leafs</a> dropped their third straight game, falling to 8-8-1.



“‘Pasta’ is obviously a special player,” Boston coach Marco Sturm said, according to <a href="https://www.nhl.com/news/toronto-maple-leafs-boston-bruins-game-recap-november-11-2025" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">NHL.com</a>. “To score 400 goals in this league is pretty amazing, so we’re all really happy for him that he reached that milestone. Knowing him, he’s been probably thinking about that one for a long, long time. He’s such a good guy, too, and he means a lot to everyone here, not just our team, but also the organization and the fans. So, it was nice to do it at home as well.”



<h2>Pastrnak’s milestone</h2>



Pastrnak became the sixth player in Bruins history to reach 400 goals, joining Johnny Bucyk (545), Phil Esposito (459), Patrice Bergeron (427), Brad Marchand (422), and Rick Middleton (402). 



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">DAVID PASTRNAK CAREER GOAL NO. 400 🚨🚨🚨 <a href="https://t.co/CAAoFxzzEQ">pic.twitter.com/CAAoFxzzEQ</a>— TSN (@TSN_Sports) <a href="https://twitter.com/TSN_Sports/status/1988413742464250234?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">November 12, 2025</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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“It really hit me when the guys came over,” Pastrnak said. “It was so cool what they did for me, and to top it off with a win is great.” Pastrnak’s second goal of the night and his power-play tally later in the third period sealed the 5-3 victory for Boston.


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<h2>Bruins maintain offensive balance</h2>



The Bruins got off to an early start with Pavel Zacha’s power-play goal. Hampus Lindholm restored the lead to 2-1 on another man-advantage strike, while Alex Steeves scored his first goal as a Bruin. 


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Toronto briefly threatened with goals from Bobby McMann and Oliver Ekman-Larsson, but Pastrnak’s late power-play strike cemented Boston’s win and extended the team’s hot streak.

Bruins’ David Pastrnak 400th goal earns heartfelt note from coach Marco Sturm

David Pastrnak's 400th goal draws heartfelt message from Marco Sturm as Bruins extend streak vs Maple Leafs - Bolavip US

Pastrnak's 400th goal draws heartfelt message from Sturm as Bruins extend streak vs Maple Leafs

David Pastrnak’s 400th goal draws heartfelt message from Marco Sturm as Bruins extend streak vs Maple Leafs

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