Boston Bruins Fan Who Made Racist Remarks Toward Joel Ward Targeted With Death Threats

Probably not the way to regain peace after a handful of Boston Bruins fans used Twitter as a means to lob racist remarks at Washington Capitals forward Joel Ward: Levying death threats at the racist Tweeters.

At least one of the fans who used the n-word to describe Ward following the black winger's series-winning goal has been targeted with threats to his life, reports the Boston Herald.

"The B's lost and I just said it," said one Western Massachusetts Bruins fan who called Ward a racial slur in a tweet. "The fact is, I'm not a racist. It was stupid of me. I would apologize to Joel Ward if I could."

The fan said he's received death threats.

The Herald also reports that at least two other fans who used racial slurs on Twitter to describe Ward are in danger of being disciplined by their schools.

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Boston Bruins Issue Apology After Fans Direct Racist Twitter Messages At Joel Ward

The Boston Bruins issued an apology on Thursday after several fans used Twitter to direct racist comments at Joel Ward, whose game-winning overtime goal in Game 7 gave the series to the Washington Capitals.

"The Bruins are very disappointed by the racist comments that were made following the game last night. These classless, ignorant views are in no way a reflection of anyone associated with the Bruins organization," read a statement issued on the Bruins' website, attempting to remove the Bruins from awful behavior in which some of their fans participated after Game 7.

After Ward, who is black, netted the game-winner, a handful of Bruins fans tweeted racist messages using the n-word to describe the Washington forward.

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Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 7: B's Find No Game Seven Magic, Fall 2-1 In OT To Caps

They had been there so many times before--one of the most exciting, albeit nauseating games in sports--Game 7 of a Stanley Cup Playoff round.

In fact, last year in the their remarkable playoff run towards the Stanley Cup, they played three series that went to seven games, including the Stanley Cup Final itself. This series against the number seven seed in the conference should be nothing compared to those, right?

Not when you factor the exhaustion. Not the physical exhaustion of playing in a seven game series, with four of those games going into overtime. But the mental anxiety that carries over from a short summer and through a long, long season.

As the game started and continued through the first period, there was something missing that was so clearly evident in last year's run. They looked tired and they failed to have that same spark that ran through the entire bench last year.

As has been customary for this series, the Capitals started the scoring midway through the first period when Matt Hendricks fired a shot through at 11:23, giving Washington a familiar lead.

Tyler Seguin provided offense for the Bruins in the second period with a diving lunge at the puck as it trickled behind rookie sensation Braden Holtby, who otherwise made 31 saves on the night.

The third period had fans in and out of their seats as things began to heat up, but neither team could find the advantage over the other. The Bruins failed to convert on their power play numerous times including a chance with just over two minutes to go in regulation.

And, as people will tell you, hockey is a game of inches and bounces and chances, and each team has them. The Bruins had the best opportunity just as the overtime period started, and Patrice Bergeron missed an open net off a rebound by just a few inches. That turned into a chance the other way where perhaps the most unlikely candidate to score in overtime, Joel Ward, put the game winner in and sent the B's packing.

"It's definitely a weird feeling, an empty feeling," Bruins defenseman Dennis Seidenberg said after the game. "You're kind of wondering what's going to happen--you don't even realize it's summer now, but again, a couple bounces here or there and it could have gone the other way."

Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 7: Boston Falls 2-1 In Overtime

The Boston Bruins' season ended just 2:57 into overtime, as Joel Ward notched the game-winner for the Washington Capitals to advance to the second round of the 2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs. Mike Knuble did most of the work on the goal, blocking the puck as the Bruins tried to clear in the neutral zone, creating an odd-man rush. Knuble fired the puck at Tim Thomas from point-black range, and Ward was just behind to clean up the rebound.

The Bruins had a perfect opportunity to win the game earlier in the overtime period, but Patrice Bergeron fanned the puck wide left on a wide open net.

The miss ultimately proved very costly. Thomas finished the game with 25 saves on 27 shots against. Holtby continued his solid play as a rookie in net, stopping 31 of 32 shots faced. The Bruins had three powerplay opportunities to one for the Capitals, but couldn't find the back of the net on any of their chances.

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Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 7: Boston And Washington Headed To Overtime

The Boston Bruins and the Washington Capitals are headed to overtime in Game 7 of their Eastern Conference quarterfinal series. Neither team was able to light the lamp in the third period, though both teams had their chances.

The Capitals outshot the Bruins in the period for the first time all game. Tim Thomas turned back 12 shots against, though Johnny Boychuk may have came up with the play of the game when he blocked an Alex Ovechkin one-timer on an open net with his outstretched right leg.

The Bruins, by contrast, had just six shots against Braden Holtby in the third period, after combined for 25 through the first 40 minutes. Dennis Seidenberg had a great opportunity to beat a well-screened Holtby on a long slapshot, but Holtby somehow got a glove on it despite an obstructed view.

Fittingly, this series will be decided by one goal after six straight games decided by the slimmest of margins.

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Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 7: Boston Evens Score, 1-1, After 2 Periods

The Boston Bruins have evened up the score after two periods in Game 7 of their Eastern Conference quarterfinal series against the Washington Capitals. Tyler Seguin tipped in a long slapshot by Johnny Boychuk that snuck behind Caps' goaltender Braden Holtby on his stick side.

The goal was Seguin's second of the postseason. The Caps did better on the offensive end in the second period, but were still outshot 14-8 by the Bruins. Tim Thomas now has 12 saves on 13 shots against. Holtby has turned back 24 of 25 shots faced. Rich Peverley leads all players with three shots on goal through two periods.

Neither team recorded a penalty, though Peverley pushed his luck when he pretended to slash Holtby after the goaltender pushed him down to the ice.

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Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 7: Boston Down 0-1 After 1st Period

The Boston Bruins are down 1-0 after one period in Game 7 of their Eastern Conference quarterfinal series against the Washington Capitals. The Bruins outshot the Caps 11-5 in the period, but Washington caught a big break when John Carlson's wrist shot from just outside the right circle was ever-so-slightly deflected off the stick of Matt Hendricks around goaltender Tim Thomas.

That fluky goal is the difference so far in a game that the Bruins have had plenty of opportunities to take advantage of. Boston got a powerplay chance late in the period after Jeff Schultz was sent to the box for tripping Brad Marchand. Washington stymied Boston's offensive attack, however, leaving the Bruins scoreless.

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2012 NHL Playoffs, Bruins Vs. Capitals Game 7: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

The Boston Bruins host a Game 7 against the Washington Capitals on Wednesday night with a trip to the second round of the 2012 NHL Playoffs in the balance.

The Bruins won three Game 7s last season en route to winning the Stanley Cup title, and have already skated close to elimination this postseason. They fended off Washington 4-3 in overtime when Tyler Seguin netted a game-winner about five minutes into the extra period.

Now, the series returns to the TD Garden as the Bruins ready for yet another seventh game.

Location: TD Garden, Boston, Ma.

Game Time: 7:30 p.m. ET

TV Information: NBC Sports Network

Series: Tied 3-3, winner advance to Eastern Conference semifinals

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2012 NHL Playoffs, Bruins Vs. Capitals: Boston's Experience Could Pay Dividends In Game 7

The Boston Bruins have been here before, several times. As coach Claude Julien noted recently, they don't like to make it easy on themselves.

Playing one grueling seven-game series after the next probably isn't great for the Bruins' bodily health, but it has helped to forge a mental toughness which can only help Boston in Wednesday's night's Game 7 against the Washington Capitals.

NESN Bruins analyst Andy Brickley explained how Boston can benefit from past playoff encounters during an interview on WEEI.

"You can look at the X's and O's and all of the matchups that you're trying to get and, as far as the Bruins are concerned, the elevated play of their top six, but it's all about the control of your emotions," Brickley said. "Fear and guilt are great motivators, and the fear of losing, the fear of going home, you have to be able to channel that fear into something positive. That's where the experience I think starts to come in.

"The Bruins were around for Game 7 losses three years ago, two years ago, and then the three Game 7 wins a year ago. The guys that experienced both sides of that, I think they have a better handle on how to handle the emotional side of that."

"Sure, the fact that you're expected to win -- and I think that's the expectation throughout the whole NHL hockey community is that the Bruins will and should win tonight -- it can be a dangerous thing," Brickley said. "The one thing that I didn't like about this core group, and I'm going back a year-and-a-half now, is that they're not good front-runners. When they were expected to win, they didn't handle it well, but I think their experience a year ago, because they're champions and what they went through at times this year, should help them."

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2012 NHL Playoffs, Bruins Vs. Capitals: Patrice Bergeron Misses Practice On Eve Of Game 7

Boston Bruins forward Patrice Bergeron missed Tuesday's practice as the team prepared for Game 7 of its first round series with the Washington Capitals, according to a report from WEEI.

Bergeron was limited from taking faceoffs during Game 6 after suffering an undisclosed injury in Game 5.

The Bruins will host Washington on Wednesday night for the right to advance to the second round of the 2012 NHL Playoffs.

The only other player to miss practice was Adam McQuaid, who has yet to participate in a single session since the playoffs began.

WEEI has the lines Boston used during Tuesday's practice:

Milan Lucic - David Krejci - Tyler Seguin

Brad Marchand - Rich Peverley - Jordan Caron

Benoit Pouliot - Chris Kelly - Brian Rolston

Daniel Paille - Gregory Campbell - Shawn Thornton

Zdeno Chara - Dennis Seidenberg

Andrew Ference - Johnny Boychuk

Greg Zanon - Mike Mottau

(Andrew Bodnarchuk - Joe Corvo)

Tim Thomas

Tuukka Rask

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Bruins Vs. Capitals, Game 7: Wednesday's Start Time Is 7:30 P.M. EST

We have our start time for Wednesday night's Game 7 between the Boston Bruins and Washington Capitals in the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals of the 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs at TD Garden, and it's 7:30 p.m. EST. The game will be televised nationally on NBC Sports Network, as well as regionally on NESN. In addition, you can listen to the game on WBZ-FM 98.5 The Sports Hub.

Facing elimination, the Bruins fought tooth and nail to secure a 4-3 overtime win in Game 6 at the Verizon Center. Tyler Seguin scored the game-winner at 3:17 of overtime, the first playoff overtime goal of his young career. The win set Boston up for its fifth Game 7 in its last six playoff series.

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2012 NHL Playoffs, Bruins Vs. Capitals Game 7: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

Tyler Seguin: 'That's Probably One Of The Biggest Goals I've Got'

Tyler Seguin gave the Boston Bruins new life with his goal 3:17 into overtime on Sunday afternoon, giving the B's a 4-3 win over the Washington Capitals in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals in the 2012 NHL Playoffs. Seguin's goal, assisted by David Krejci, was the first playoff overtime goal of his career.

"I saw the goalie challenging and I just tried to make a quick move and luckily, it went in," Seguin said. "I think this series we've had a lot of chances and opportunities and I haven't been bearing down or finishing them off. It's just really nice to get that feeling of finally getting one.

"When you're a little kid, that's your dream, get those big goals and keep your team alive. Looking back on my career so far, that's probably one of the biggest goals I've got." (via WEEI)

Seguin and the Bruins host the Caps in Game 7 on Wednesday night at TD Garden.

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Capitals Vs. Bruins, Game 6: Tyler Seguin Nets Game-Winner In OT, Boston Forces Game 7

Thanks to Tyler Seguin's overtime tally, there will be a Game 7 between the Boston Bruins and Washington Capitals. Seguin netted the game-winner about five minutes into the extra session, which he helped force when he assisted on a third-period goal by Andrew Ference.

Seguin's score pushes the series into a win-or-go-home situation Wednesday at the TD Garden. The game time and television information has yet to be determined.

Seguin's goal was setup by Milan Lucic, who also assisted on a first-period tally by David Krejci. Bruins goaltender Tim Thomas made 36 saves in the winning effort, which featured the Capitals out-shooting the Bruins 39-31.

For more on Game 6, check back to this SB Nation Boston StoryStream.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Capitals Vs. Bruins, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 6: Boston, Washington Head To Overtime As Regulation Ends In 3-3 Tie

The Boston Bruins were five minutes away from forcing a Game 7, but Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin had other ideas. Ovechkin scored with 4:52 remaining in regulation to help Game 6 of this Bruins, Capitals series head to a sudden-victory overtime period tied at 3-3.

Trailing 3-2, after Boston took a one-goal advantage with a stellar, hustle goal by Andrew Ference with 8:03 remaining, Ovechkin collected the puck off a faceoff and somehow found space between the five-hole of Bruins' goaltender Tim Thomas.

Here's at look at Ference's tally, which came off a forced turnover by Tyler Seguin.

Regulation ends with the Capitals out-shooting the Bruins 35-25, while Thomas has 35 saves for Boston.

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Capitals Vs. Bruins, Game 6: Jason Chimera's Late Goal Helps Washington, Boston Enter 3rd Period With A 2-2 Tie

A scrappy second period was ended with a goal by Washington Capital's Jason Chimera, who scored with 40 seconds to go and tied Game 6 of this Easteren Conference quarterfinal contest at 2-2. The goal sets up what could be a very exciting final 20 minutes, as the Boston Bruins, who're trying to hold off being eliminated in this best-of-seven series, will begin the third period with a 4-on-3 advantage.

The scoring was limited through the first 19 minutes, however, the physical play was not.

via assets.sbnation.com

via assets.sbnation.com

via assets.sbnation.com

via assets.sbnation.com

In the second period, Washington out-shot Boston 15-5 and now leads in the category 25-16. Meanwhile, Bruins goaltender Tim Thomas is doing his best, as he's made 23 saves.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Capitals Vs. Bruins, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 6: David Krejci, Rich Peverley Score As Boston Leads 2-1 After 1st Period

A back-and-forth first period finished with the Boston Bruins leading the Washington Capitals 2-1. Boston's David Krejci scored on the power-play with 3:14 remaining at the Verizon Center, and helped the Bruins earn an early advantage as they try to avoid having this best-of-seven series end.

Bruins goaltender Tim Thomas made eight saves, two of them coming late in the period at very close range, while Rich Peverley scored the game's first goal, 5:56 into the period, on a tip-in from a shot from Patrice Bergeron.

The lead didn't last long, however, as Washington's Mike Green answered about four minutes later.

via assets.sbnation.com

Overall, the Bruins out-shot (11-10) and out-hit (22-11) the Capitals, who were 0-for-2 on the power play. Boston went 1-for-2 on the extra-man advantage.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

NHL Playoffs 2012, Bruins Vs. Capitals Game 5 Live Blog: Score Updates And Analysis

The Bruins are in the nation's capital today for what may be their last game of the 2011-12 season. Shawn Thornton was scratched in favor of Jordan Caron and Mike Mottau is in on defense for Joe Corvo.

FIRST PERIOD

5:56 - Rich Peverley bats an Andrew Ference slapshot out of the air and it bounces past Braden Holtby to give the Bruins an early 1-0 lead.

9:47 - The lead is short-lived as Mike green outwaits the Boston defense and bangs one home off of Greg Zanon's leg.

16:48 - David Krejci re-directs a Milan Lucic past over Holtby's shoulder to give Boston their second power play goal of the series and their second lead of the game. The goal reads Krejci (Lucic, Peverley) at 16:48. It's Peverley's second point of the game.

SECOND PERIOD

1:57 - Alexander Ovechkin heads to the box for four minutes after getting the blade of his stick on Zdeno Chara's nose and drawing blood. The Bruins will have a four-minute power play.

5:57 - The Caps kill the penalty, with just one Boston shot on goal in four minutes.

15:44 - Patrice Bergeron is called for high-sticking, his second penalty of the day. During the change, the Capitals clearly have seven men on the ice, but are not whistled for the infraction and Washington will have another power play.

17:44 - The Bruins kill the penalty.

19:20 - Jason Chimera lays out Brad Marchand at the Boston blue line, and streaks down the left wing to tie the game with less than a minute to play.

THIRD PERIOD

5:49 - The Capitals have absolutely dominated the start of this period, putting up five shots in the final frame while the B's have just three. Bruins are looking a bit gassed and will need to pick it up if they want to keep this a tie game.

8:50 - Benoit Pouliot heads to the penalty box for roughing. This is the second straight game that Pouliot has recorded a third period penalty in a tie game. This didn't end well for the Bruins last time that happened.

11:57 - Andrew Ference pinched at the right time and finished off a rebound top corner over Holtby's blocker to give the Bruins a 3-2 lead over the Capitals.

15:08 - Alex Ovechkin ties the game 3-3 after the Bruins lost a faceoff and Ovechkin knocked one past Tim Thomas.

20:00 - It looked like the Bruins could have taken the series into a Game 7, but Alex Ovechkin's goal late in the period tied it up, and both teams will head back to the locker rooms and take a while to think about it. The Bruins have had a number of these do-or-die games in the past, but the last two times they did, they had Nathan Horton.

OVERTIME

2:15 - Chara had a prime opportunity early into overtime, holding onto the puck just a little bit too long. Bergeron also almost found the back of the net with a tip in that went off the crossbar.

3:17 - The original first line of David Krejci, Milan Lucic and Tyler Seguin made it rain in overtime, and Seguin's slightest hesitation fooled Holtby, and Seguin put in the game winner to force a game 7.

Bruins will play Game 7 back in Boston on Wednesday at 7 p.m.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Capitals Vs. Bruins Game 6: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

NHL Playoffs 2012: Bruins, Facing Elimination, Have Tools To Win

Blame the refs. Blame Benoit Pouliot. Heck, even blame Tim Thomas for Saturday afternoon's loss to the Washington Capitals. But when it comes down to it, blame Braden Holtby.

Holtby now has better numbers than Thomas this post season -- he who was once called a third-stringer, playing for a team that barely made the playoffs. You can blame him.

But once you are done blaming and cursing the hockey gods for allowing him the breaks his team has had and the curses the Bruins have faced, take solace in knowing this.

They made him bleed.

Not physically, no, but they revealed a soft spot in the wall that can give Bruins fans everywhere a sense of hope and will alleviate some of the urges to wallow in misery.

In the second period, being down 2-0 after Alexander Semin and Jay Beagle ripped into Tim Thomas, the Bruins could have easily just wallowed in their own misery. They had seen this before, and the momentum had been ripped from their grasp.

But never discount the value of certain members of the team, most notably, Shawn Thornton.

That fourth line provided just the right amount of spark by doing, well, what they are supposed to be doing.

"You want to finish your checks and get pucks in deep and there was an opportunity to finish the check and that’s what we tried to do and created a little energy," Thornton said after the game. "And the guys did a good job of following it up and scoring two goals to tie it in the second."

With under three minutes to go in the second period, the Bruins did score two goals--two goals in 28 seconds. This happened a lot during the month of November and through the first half of the season. Bruins fans were almost accustomed to seeing that every game. But seeing it come against the otherwise blemish-free wall that Holtby has been is more encouraging than the loss is discouraging.

"We had a pretty strong finish against them that period," Bruins captain Zdeno Chara said. "We put a lot of pressure on him. We threw every puck on net. We had some traffic and we put those pucks behind. We have to continue to do that and it is always big in the playoffs to have that traffic and a lot of pucks in the net."

They know this song and dance. They have done it so many times. And now that they don't it's possible and they have the confidence, they just have to go do it.

In fact, that was their mantra last night in the locker room--just do it. When asked if their experience last year being in these kinds of predicaments would help them going forward in this series, they said yes, but that knowing they can do it, and just doing it are two different things.

"Knowing that we’ve been in these types of situations and responded well in the past can help to build confidence as a group, that we have what it takes to come back and do what we’re going to need to do to win this series if we want to move on," Thomas said. "But having said that, it’s up to us to do it, not just to know that we’ve done it before. So don’t think it’s just going to happen. We’re going to have to reach down deep inside of ourselves and find a way."

The Bruins face elimination today at 3 p.m. in Washington, as they take on the Capitals at Verizon Center for Game 6 in Washington, D.C.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Capitals Vs. Bruins, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 5: Late "Very Weak" Penalty Gives Caps 4-3 Win Over B's

The Bruins had the momentum on their side for much of the second part of the game, but ended up taking a 4-3 loss to the Washington Capitals in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals on Saturday afternoon at TD Garden.

It was geared up to be an exciting end to the game. Both teams fought back at various points during the game, and, with three minutes left to go in the third period, the game was tied 3-3.

But then with a quick flick of the wrist and a hand in the air, the Bruins took a penalty and Benoit Pouliot sat in the penalty box looking from the outside in at the result of his slashing penalty.

As he sat there, 1:20 later, the Capitals were able to convert with the extra-man, courtesy of Troy Brouwer, sending all the momentum the Bruins had out the window on a call that has been deemed "very weak" by Bruins head coach Claude Julien.

With the penalty call and the goal coming late, the Bruins didn't have much time to come back after, but they had more chances before that as they proved in the second period.

After the first period was held scoreless, the B's were able to come back in the second and dominate the period like they have done in the past. Though they let up two goals early on, they came back with less than three minutes to go in the middle frame to score two goals of their own within 28 seconds of each other, courtesy of Dennis Seidenberg and Brad Marchand.

That ended the second period and the Bruins left the ice on a high note. However, the Capitals were the ones that struck first in the third period, as Mike Knuble put in his first goal of the playoffs past Thomas to give them the 3-2 lead. That goal came just seconds after Bruins defenseman Joe Corvo hit the ice after taking a shot to his right leg and not getting a stop in play. He hobbled around on his skates in obvious pain, and with essentially one man down, Knuble was able to capitalize.

"Yeah, I’ll take full responsibility for that third goal [from Washington]," Bruins forward Shawn Thornton said. "The rebound came up pretty hot and I tried to get my stick on top of [Mike Knuble’s] but he got just enough – we’re both right-handed, both swinging for it he got it so it’s my bad."

However, Johnny Boychuk answered and came into the scene and rocketed one past Holtby on the power play to tie it with more than half the period to go. The momentum from that goal seemed to carry into the final minutes of the game until the slashing penalty took it's toll.

"The last goal he fooled me and beat me clean," Bruins goaltender Tim Thomas said. "He’s coming down with a lot of speed and he shot and I read that the shot was going lower. And by the time I even realized that the shot was going that high, I didn’t even have time to raise my hand."

While many of the players visually looked displeased by the call, none of them could comment on whether they thought it was the right call, and instead just retorted with "we have to come out and play tomorrow."

Tomorrow's game is less than 24 hours away and will be played at the Verizon Center in Washington D.C. at 3 p.m.

Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 5: Bruins Lose, 4-3

The Boston Bruins lost to the Washington Capitals on Saturday, falling behind the Caps in their first round Playoff series, 3-2. The Bs are now one game away from elimination, as the series heads to Washington for game four on Sunday.

The game was tied much of the day – 0-0 after one, 2-2 after two and 3-3 late in the third period – but Troy Brouwer un-tied the game for good with less than two minutes remaining. Brower's goal came on a Washington power play and was assisted by John Carlson.

Boston ended up out-shooting the Capitals, 37-32, but Tim Thomas was only able to save 88 percent of the Caps shots against.

How do you feel Bruins fans?

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Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 5: B's, Caps Tied 2-2 After Two Periods

The Boston Bruins and Washington Capitals are locked in a 2-2 tie, after two periods of play.

After a scoreless first period, both teams scored a pair of goals in the second period. The first two were scored by Alexander Semin and Jay Beagle from the Caps, giving them a 2-0 lead. Then, Dennis Seidenberg scored Brad Marchand scored goals within 30 seconds of each other to tie the game.

Below are videos of the two Bruins goals:

Boston out-shot the Captials, 14-12, in the second period.

The winner of today's contest will take a 3-2 series lead, as game six is scheduled for Sunday, in Washington. The remainder of the game can be seen on NBC.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 5: B's, Caps Tied 0-0 After First Period

The Boston Bruins and Washington Capitals are knotted at 0-0 after one period of play in Saturday's game five of the first round in the 2012 NHL Playoffs.

Washington recorded 11 shots in the first period, to the Bruins 10. Neither team converted a power play, as the Caps were 0-1 and the Bruins were 0-2.

Things got a little dicey early in the period when Bruins goalie, Tim Thomas, threw a punch when a Capitals player collided with him in the net.

The winner of today's contest will take a 3-2 series lead, as game six is scheduled for Sunday, in Washington. The remainder of the game can be seen on NBC.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

NHL Playoffs 2012, Bruins Vs. Capitals Game 5 Live Blog: Score Updates And Analysis

The series is all tied up 2-2, and the Bruins will bring the Capitals back to Boston for Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals of the 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs at 3:00 p.m. EST on Saturday afternoon at TD Garden in Boston, MA. Below is a live blog with score updates and analysis for Monday night's game.

THIRD PERIOD

20:00: Capitals take Game 5, 4-3. Game 6 tomorrow in Washington.

18:33: Benoit Pouliot's penalty proved to be a big one, after Brouwer walked right in and sniped one past Thomas to put the Capitals up with just over a minute to go in the third.

15:16: Bruins continue to put pressure on Holtby. Patrice Bergeron sat out a couple of shifts after taking a big hit from Alex Ovechkin, but did manage to take on short shift since then.

8:47: Well, until now. Johnny Boychuk decided he wanted to fix the power play and put in his first goal of the playoffs with a one-timer from the blueline. He's accustomed to doing that, but normally it's from the right side. He took it from the left this time

7:29: Former Bruins defenseman Dennis Wideman heads to the sin bin after cross-checking Marchand in the face. Bruins are back on the power play, but have not converted once in this series.

5:28: Holtby coming up big for the Caps once again, make two big stops on Lucic and Tyler Seguin. It was perhaps his best save of the series, doing a split to stop the Bruins young sniper. Still 3-2.

3:21: After the huge surge in the last part of the second period, the Caps are the ones to come out and convert. Tim Thomas gave up a big rebound, and Mike Knuble was there to put it in. Capital's up 3-2.

SECOND PERIOD

20:00: Sorry I didn't get to update until now. The internet was broken due to two Boston goals in 28 seconds. Dennis Seidenberg and Brad Marchand each found a way past the previously unblemished Holtby with under three minutes to play in the period. They tied the game at two going into intermission and are currently outshooting them 24-23.

14:27: Jay Beagle adds to the Capitals lead, putting a soft one past Thomas to give Washington a 2-0 lead. That was Beagle's first goal of the playoffs.

14:03: Bruins are still being outshot 21-15, though they have put a bit of pressure on Holtby.

11:16: Capitals forward Alexander Semin found a rebound and put it in back of the net on their 19th shot of the game. Just seconds before the goal, Bruins defenseman Joe Corvo took a shot to his right ankle and could not skate on it. Play was not stopped and Semin took the opportunity to put his team up.

9:17: Thomas shows his skill off and makes two huge saves almost back-to-back. His save on Joel Ward had him throw all his pads to work and he covered it up to force a faceoff. Score still 0-0

7:24: Johnny Boychuk and Troy Brouwer got things heated up in the second as both of them were called for matching roughing penalties 5:14 into the second period. The Bruins also have had a couple of very good scoring chances, Chara with one from the blueline that nearly made it's way past Holtby. Caps still outshooting the B's 14-13.

FIRST PERIOD

20:00: Tim Thomas ended the last minutes of the period with a gigantic save on superstar Alex Ovechkin. Ovechkin came through the slot and tried deeking past Thomas who stuck his right leg pad out to make the save. And, as it's been so far this series, neither team was able to put the puck in the back of the net. Just before the horn, Chara collided with a Jason Chimera and was knocked in the back of the head. He remained down on the ice for a couple of seconds, before standing up and looking a bit dazed.

15:42: Capitals defenseman Roman Hamrlik heads to the box now. Washington is outshooting the Bruins 10-6 at this point.

13:56: Things have started to get very chippy here now. Daniel Paille and Troy Brouwer got into a little tiff before a faceoff and were sent off for matching unsportsmanlike conduct minors, and not so far after that, Zdeno Chara went for roughing. The B's were able to successfully kill the penalty, down 4-on-3, and they have the crowd on its feet.

10:20: There's been a little more life at least, and the Bruins have tied the Caps in shots at 5-5. Holtby continues to look strong in net, as has Thomas.

7:37: The B's have only registered one official shot on net, though there were a couple that hit the post already. Captain Zdeno Chara knocked the piping after firing a one-timer from the right faceoff circle on the power play. The Caps have dominated the neutral zone play thus far, and have tested Thomas early, putting up four shots.

2:30: John Carlson fired a shot on net and promptly continued to skate through the slot and barreled into Tim Thomas. Bruins are on their first power play of the night.

PREGAME: Tim Thomas and Braden Holtby currently look eerily similar through four games. Holtby owns a 1.60 GAA with two wins, and Vezina Winner Thomas also has two wins and a 1.60 GAA, both giving up seven goals so far this series. Needless to say, Holtby has made a name for himself, and what better situation than the Stanley Cup Playoffs?

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Top-Six Struggles Force Bruins Into Overhaul Of The Forward Corps

In an effort to help his team break out of the offensive slump that’s engulfed them throughout their series with the seventh seeded Washington Capitals, Claude Julien opted to give his forward units a complete makeover.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Bruins Vs. Capitals Game 5: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

The Boston Bruins look to snap a 2-2 series tie in their favor when their 2012 NHL Playoffs run continues on Saturday with Game 5 against the Washington Capitals. (Game Time: 3 p.m. ET, TV Schedule: NBC)

Washington fended off Boston on Thursday, 2-1, to even the series. Braden Holtby made 44 saves to give the Capitals a chance, and Alexander Semin beat Tim Thomas in the second period to provide the game winner. Thomas made 21 saves, but Boston could not manage to find the net more than once despite out-shooting Washington 45-23.

The Bruins will look a little different in Game 5 after coach Claude Julien moved Tyler Seguin and Brad Marchand to the third and fourth lines, respectively.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Capitals Vs. Bruins, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 4: Bruins Fall 2-1, Series Tied 2-2 Heading Back To Boston

The Boston Bruins fell 2-1 in Game 4 against the Washington Capitals on Thursday night. Braden Holtby was spectacular in net, turning back 44 shots against to help the Caps tie their opening series of the 2012 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at two games apiece heading back to back to Boston for Game 5.

The Bruins outshot the Capitals 14-3 in the first period, but it was Washington who got on the scoreboard first. Just 1:22 into the game, Brooks Laich fed Rich Peverley for a one-timer off of a Bruins turnover in the neutral zone. Alex Ovechkin checked Andrew Ference to the ice to help spring the play.

The Bruins responded just under 12 minutes later when Rich Peverley broke out in the neutral zone down the right side of the ice, feigned pass several times and put the puck through Holtby's five-hole.

The play was the netminder's lone blemish. Tim Thomas played well on the other end of the ice, recording 21 saves, but gave up the game winner late in the second period on a Capitals powerplay. Alexander Semin got the puck in the middle of the left circle and rocked it back and forth a couple times before launching a beauty into the top right hand corner of the net.

A critical Game 5 is for 3:00 p.m. ET in Boston.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

VIDEO: Bruins Nearly Tie Game 4 Thanks To Slow-Fingered Clock Operator

Bruins Vs. Capitals Score Update: Semin, Caps Take 2-1 Lead Into Third Period

After entering the second period deadlocked at one goal a piece, the Boston Bruins and Washington Capitals would combine for thirty three total shots in the middle frame with only one finding the back of the net.

Successfully killing off the first Washington power-play of the period, the Black and Gold found themselves a man down once again with just more than two minutes to play. Unfortunately for the B's, the Capitals would take advantage of their second power-play of the period when enigmatic Russian sniper Alex Semin fired a wrist shot over the glove of Tim Thomas to put Washington ahead 2-1 with just over a minute to play in the frame.

The score would remain 2-1 in favor of Washington as the two squads made their way to the dressing rooms for second intermission.

Washington is now one for three with the man advantage tonight and the B's have yet to go on the power-play.

ANIMATED: David Krejci Survives Scary Moment With Skate

Bruins Vs. Capitals Score Update: B's And Caps Tied At One After First Period In DC

WASHINGTON, DC-- On Thursday evening, the Boston Bruins were out looking to take full control of their Eastern Conference quarterfinal series against the Washington Capitals at the Verizon Center. After taking game three on the road on Monday, the B’s had the chance to give themselves the opportunity to eliminate the Caps on TD Garden ice this Saturday.

To say that things didn't begin the way the Black and Gold had hoped they would might qualify as the understatement of the year. Allowing the Capitals to take advantage of a neutral zone breakdown just eighty-two seconds after puck-drop, the Bruins quickly found themselves down 1-0.

It wasn't until the 13:12 mark of the opening frame that the B's would even the score at one on Rich Peverley's second goal of the postseason. The tally would mark the second consecutive game that number forty-nine has posted the first goal of the night for Boston.

NHL Playoffs 2012, Bruins Vs. Capitals Game 4 Live Blog: Score Updates And Analysis

Welcome to the Verizon Center and Game Four of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals between the visiting Boston Bruins and home standing Washington Capitals. The Bruins lead the series two games to one, and hope to grow their series lead tonight as the Capitals will be without the services of center Nicklas Backstrom, who is serving a one-game suspension for his match penalty at the conclusion of Game Three for cross-checking Bruins winger Rich Peverley up high.

We'll have live updates as events warrant throughout the game tonight.

FIRST PERIOD

1:22 - The Bruins neutral zone trap gives Washington a way too easy entry, and Marcus Johansson scores his first of the series to give the Caps an early 1-0 lead.

6:05 - Boston records seven consecutive shots following the Washington goal, including a couple of strong drives to the net by Tyler Seguin, who has been nearly invisible this series. It looks like the Caps are missing Backstromg as both Gregory Campbell and Shawn Thornton have attacking zone faceoff wins early in the game.

13:13 - A bad pinch by Dennis Wideman exposes John Erskine and Rich Peverley, who had Daniel Paille and Gregory Campbell on an odd-man rush, gets one past Holtby to tie the game up.

17:22 - Peverley follows up on his goal with a too-hard slash on Jay Beagle's stick, breaking the twig while backchecking, and the Bruins will have to kill the first penalty of the night.

19:22 - The Bruins kill the penalty, allowing Washington no shots on goal and two offsides whistles.

20:00 - The period ends with a few big hits. Boston outshot Washington 14-3 in the period.

SECOND PERIOD

9:45 - Johnny Boychuk goes to the box for hooking Troy Brouwer and Washington gets its second chance on the power play of the game.

11:45 - Washington manages five shots on goal, but Boston kills the penalty to Boychuk.

17:53 - Patrice Bergeron heads to the penalty box after being called for a hook. The Capitals have been dominant over the Bruins since the last power play that transpired. The penalty will expire just before the end of the period.

18:43 - Capitals forward Alexander Semin nailed one top shelf on Tim Thomas and converted on the power play after Patrice Bergeron's hooking penalty. The Caps lead the game 2-1 with just over a minute to go in the period.

20:00 - Washington carried the momentum for the better part of the second period. Penalties really hurt the Bruins in the middle frame, and the Caps were able to earn a goal from the last one, as soft as the penalty might have been. The Capitals did not lose a game in regulation when they were winning heading into the third period, but Boston's goal differential has been absurd in that same period as well.

THIRD PERIOD

2:40 - The Bruins have started the third period with some fire, putting six shots on Braden Holtby before the Capitals were ever really able to get it into Boston's zone. A much different feeling than the end of the second period.

6:15 - B's are currently outshooting the Capitals 7-1, and are looking a little desperate as time starts to wind down. They still have more than half a period to get the equalizer, but they are throwing pucks at the net just to get in on net.

10:09 - The Bruins have their first chance on the power play after Mike Knuble was called for holding Johnny Boychuk. The B's power play hasn't been good, but this could be a way to jump start the rest of the period to try and get a tying goal.

18:54 - Bruins pull goaltender Tim Thomas to add the extra attacker. I'm not sure what they are trying to do at this point. They weren't even able to put a single shot on net in their one power play attempt they had this game. Putting the extra player on right now won't do much for them.

20:00 - Braden Holtby makes one final save on Patrice Bergeron for his 44th save of the game as the horn sounds. Caps reset the series, tying it 2-2 heading back in Boston on Saturday.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Capitals Vs. Bruins Game 4: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

The Boston Bruins regained control of their home ice advantage over the Washington Capitals on Monday night with a game three victory, and they'll try to push the Capitals to the brink with a game four win on Thursday.

It won't be easy, however, as the two teams have combined for just 11 goals through three games, with both Tim Thomas and Braden Holtby admirably patrolling their respective crease.

But the Bruins managed to breakthrough against Holtby in game three, testing him early and often and eventually solving him for four goals, including a late game-winner from captain Zdeno Chara.

A victory in game four would send the Bruins home with a chance to wrap up the Eastern Conference quarterfinals series in front of their home crowd. Washington has no intentions of going down with a fight, aiming to equalize the series on home ice, much like the Ottawa Senators were able to against thew New York Rangers on Wednesday night.

The Bruins are expected to again be without defenseman Adam McQuaid, who continues to deal with an upper-body injury.

Game Time: 7:30 p.m. EST

TV Coverage: NBCSN, NESN (local)

Radio Coverage: 98.5 The Sports Hub

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Incredible Depth The Reason Behind Bruins' Early Success Against Capitals

Through three games of the 2012 playoffs, Boston's top six forwards have produced a grand total of one goal. Here's a look at how the Bruins' incredible depth has brought them a 2-1 series lead over the Capitals.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Bruins Vs. Capitals: Washington Upset With Nicklas Backstrom Suspension

The Washington Capitals have voiced their displeasure with Nicklas Backstrom's suspension.

Washington's top center was forced out of Game 4 after the NHL concluded that his cross-check on Rich Peverley at the end of Game 3 was "excessive and reckless."

The Capitals' full statement about the suspension follows:

We disagree with the NHL's decision to suspend Nicklas Backstrom. This has been a competitive and physical series, and we do not understand why a suspension was imposed in this case while other incidents in this series have not been reviewed. Our singular focus now is on Game 4, and we look forward to the energy that our great fans provide.

The Bruins used aggressive, forceful play in Game 2 to seize command of the series with a road win which gave Boston a 2-1 series lead.

But coach Claude Julien denied that the Bruins crossed the line from aggressive to dirty.

"Being accused of head-hunting is ludicrous," he said, according to CSNNE reporter Joe Haggerty.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Bruins Vs. Capitals Final: Chara's Late Tally Lifts B's To 4-3 Victory In D.C.

WASHINGTON, DC-- On Monday evening, the Boston Bruins stole home-ice advantage right back from the Washington Capitals by way of a 4-3 victory on Verizon Center ice.

Entering the third period deadlocked in a 2-2 tie, the B's would waste no time in the third, going ahead 3-2 just over a minute into the frame. It would be trade deadline acquisition Brian Rolston who would put the B's ahead after corralling a rebound in the slot and shoveling it into the Caps' net. Unfortunately for Boston, the Capitals would once again even the score late in regulation when Brooks Laich took advantage of a lapse in coverage by Boston captain Zdeno Chara and sprint in to beat Tim Thomas on a breakaway.

With just over a minute to play, the B's fearsome 6'9" Slovakian leader would atone for his rare mistake, blasting a rocket slap-shot past Braden Holtby to lift the Bruins to a crucial game three victory.

Bruins Vs. Capitals Score Update: B's Even The Score At Two After Forty Minutes Of Play

WASHINGTON, DC-- After falling behind 1-0 after one period of play, the Boston Bruins were hoping to regain some traction during the middle frame of Monday's Game Three of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinal Series against the Washington Capitals.

The B's jumped back into the game early in the middle frame when a streaking Rich Peverley fired a wrist shot from the left wing that deflected off the glove of Braden Holtby and into the Capitals' net. The joy was short-lived, however as it would only take Washington a mere thirteen seconds to once again gain the lead. Superstar winger Alexander Ovechkin corralled a bouncing puck and blasted a slapshot past Tim Thomas to put the Caps ahead 2-1.

Late in the middle period, Boston would once again even the score thanks to some tough work in front of the net from Daniel Paille. The dependable fourth liner tucked home the rebound of a Greg Zanon shot to even the score at two a side as we head to the third period.

Bruins Vs. Capitals Score Update: Semin, Capitals Take 1-0 Lead Into First Intermission

WASHINGTON, DC-- In a pivotal game three showdown between the Washington Capitals and the visiting Boston Bruins, each team was looking to begin things strong after partaking in back-to-back contests that featured a grand total of zero goals in the opening frame.

After failing to produce on their first power-play opportunity -- created by a tripping call against Alexander Semin -- , the B's would find themselves on the penalty-kill with less than five minutes to play in period one. Unfortunately for Boston, it would be Semin that would find the twine at exactly the sixteen minute mark to give the Capitals a 1-0 advantage. The play was created by a defensive zone turnover by Boston, followed by defenseman Johnny Boychuk being caught severely out of position at the blueline, allowing the Washington sniper to wrist one through a two-player screen and passed Tim Thomas.

The B's lackluster power-play now finds itself with an 0-8 mark on the series after two missed opportunities in the opening twenty minutes.

NHL Playoffs 2012, Bruins Vs. Capitals Game 3 Live Blog: Score Updates And Analysis

Tim Thomas and the No. 2 seeded Boston Bruins host Alex Ovechkin and the No. 7 seeded Washington Capitals in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals of the 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs at 7:30 p.m. EST on Monday night at the Verizon Center in Washington, D.C. Below is a live blog with score updates and analysis for Monday night's game.

END OF THIRD PERIOD: Bruins win 4-3 over the Capitals.

18:07 INTO THIRD PERIOD: After another scrum on the ice that resulted in a couple more people entering each of the respective penalty boxes, Zdeno Chara fired a shot from the right side through a screen and put it past Holtby to give the Bruins a 4-3 lead.

14:00 INTO THIRD PERIOD: After the Bruins killed off an important penalty, Capitals forward Brooks Laich completely caught the defense off guard and got a breakaway, going top shelf on a helpless Tim Thomas to tie the game 3-3. Bruins looked to be totally asleep on that play.

10:17 INTO THIRD PERIOD: Dennis Seidenberg gets called for roughing after his stick gets up high on Washington. The Capitals already have a power play goal this game, and this could prove to be a crucial opportunity for them to tie the game.

8:25 INTO THIRD PERIOD: Game play continues to heat up, as do the players' tempers after the whistles. Brad Marchand had a tough moment after being slashed in the groin by Jason Chimera. Just a couple minutes later, captain Zdeno Chara had his helmet knocked off after being hit with a high stick. He looks to be okay though.

1:02 INTO THIRD PERIOD: Brian Rolston picked up a rebound and flipped it past Holtby to give the Bruins the first lead of the game, 3-2.

END OF SECOND PERIOD: Tim Thomas made the save of the night so far, stoning Jay Beagle in front of the net, point blank, with just minutes to go in the second period. Things continued to be chippy in the game, and Lucic was sent to the penalty box again with Brooks Laich midway through on a neutral zone faceoff. At the end of two periods, the game remains tied, 2-2.

9:38 INTO SECOND PERIOD: It took a couple of games, but the Bruins finally were able to put two goals together in one game. This time it was courtesy of Daniel Paille who put in a rebound right in front of the net. The Bruins should take note of that and continue to create plays like that. Nathan Horton was notorious for those kinds of goals and that's what made him so effective. 2-2 tie game.

5:18 INTO SECOND PERIOD: Rich Peverley was caught hooking and was sent to the sin bin for it. But not long after, the Capitals followed right behind, sending Backstrom to the penalty box for tripping. Both teams will play 4-on-4 for just over a minute.

:48 INTO SECOND PERIOD: Just 35 seconds into the second period, Rich Peverley came out and put one past the seemingly impenetrable Holtby, tying the game at 1-1. However, Alexander Ovechkin came back 13 seconds after that and put it under the glove of Thomas to put them back up again 2-1.

END OF FIRST PERIOD: Boston had their second power play opportunity of the period, with just over two minutes to go in the period, but they were unsuccessful and have not put a power-play goal into the net all series. The frustration was clearly mounting, and, at the end of the period, after the buzzer sounded, a scrum broke out between the lines. Milan Lucic went after Nicklas Backstrom and Chara made it a point to remove Mike Green from the center of it. Braden Holtby stopped all eight shots he faced, while Tim Thomas stopped 7-of-8.

16:00 IN FIRST PERIOD: Bruins captain Zdeno Chara was called for roughing with just under six minutes to go in the period, and it cost his team. Alexander Semin took a shot from the slot and put one past Tim Thomas with the extra-man advantage. 1-0 Capitals.

11:33 IN FIRST PERIOD: Milan Lucic and Rich Peverley skated through the zone with a 2-on-1 opportunity, but Lucic's shot was promptly stopped by Holtby. Still 0-0 in the first.

6:07 IN FIRST PERIOD: Bruins head coach Claude Julien has mixed the top lines around a bit. He has Milan Lucic and Rich Peverley with Patrice Bergeron and Tyler Seguin and Brad Marchand with David Krejci. The combinations haven't yielded much this period so far, and, even with a power play opportunity, the Bruins have just two shots on net.

1:14 IN FIRST PERIOD: The Bruins are on their first power play as Semin gets called for tripping and heads to the box. The Bruins are 0-for-6 on the power play so far this series.

PREGAME: The series is tied 1-1 going into tonight's game in Washington, D.C. In the regular season, the Bruins were 1-1 in the Nation's capital. So far this post season, the B's have only scored twice--a much different story than their regular season, where the top five players in plus/minus category in the League come from the Bruins. Enjoy Game 3!

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Capitals Vs. Bruins Game 3: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

The Bruins come into the Verizon Center in Washington looking to regain home ice advantage after watching it slip away in Game Two.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Adam McQuaid Injury Update: Bruins' Defenseman Won't Travel To Games 3, 4

The Boston Bruins won't have defenseman Adam McQuaid for games three and four of their Eastern Conference Quarterfinal matchup with the Washington Capitals (ESPN Boston).

McQuaid was injured during a March 29 game against the Capitals when he turned into a hit by Jason Chimera. McQuaid flew into the boards face first following the hit. His eye was swollen shut.

McQuaid's last game was on April 5 against the Ottawa Senators but he didn't finish that contest. McQuaid is remaining in Boston for treatment for an "upper body injury." McQuaid played 72 games during the regular season and scored two goals, had eight assists and 99 penalty minutes.

The Bruins and Capitals are tied 1-1 in the series. The next game is on Monday at 7:30 p.m. at the Verizon Center.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

NHL Playoffs 2012, Bruins Vs. Capitals, Game 2: Washington Wins, 2-1, In 2OT On Nicklas Backstrom's Goal

BOSTON - Two weeks ago, we didn't know if we'd see Nicklas Backstrom on the ice again this season. And Saturday night in Boston, he gave the Washington Capitals life in their Eastern Conference Quarterfinal series, netting the game winning goal at 2:56 of the second overtime to give the Caps a 2-1 win, tying the series at 2.

Patrice Bergeron won the defensive zone faceoff for Boston, but Boston was unable to possess the puck and Marcus Johansson found an open Backstrom who roofed the puck short side past Tim Thomas.

Troy Brouwer scored Washington's first goal, a flukey shot that Thomas had covered before Benoit Pouliot bowled into him, pushing the puck over the goal line. But it was Pouliot who evened the score in the third period when a Brian Rolston shot took a funny bounce in front of Braden Holtby and the former Montreal Canadien chipped it into the top of the cage.

Through two games, Holtby continues to be the focal point of the series; he stopped 43 of 44 shots that he saw on Saturday after saving 29 of 30 in an overtime loss on Thursday night.

But the real story may be Washington's commitment to taking away the neutral zone from Boston, which hasn't been able to gain the attacking zone with any ease yet this series, save for a few rogue shifts in the middle of the first overtime Saturday, which produced some of Boston's best chances, yet they were unable to capitalize on the opportunities and take a 2-0 series lead to Washington.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 2: Bruins Lose In Second Overtime, 2-1

Nicklas Backstrom scored the game-winning goal early in the second overtime, to give the Washington Capitals a win over the Boston Bruins, tying the series at one game a piece.

The Boston Bruins finished the regular season tied with the Philadelphia Flyers as the second highest scoring teams in the league. The Flyers have lived up to their billing during the Playoffs, scoring 12 goals in two games, while the Bruins have scored only twice in six period, plus three overtimes.

Benoit Pouliot scored the Bruins only goal of the game, with Brian Rolston and Chris Kelly notching assists.

Game three is scheduled for Monday, as the series moves to Washington.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 2: Caps And Bruins To Play Second Overtime

The Boston Bruins and Washington Capitals are still tied at one after one overtime. If you like low-scoring games with good goaltending, then this Bruins-Caps series has been your cup of tea through two games. A total of six periods and two overtimes have been played, with only three total goals scored.

Boston out-shot the Capitals, 11-8, in the first overtime period and 41-37 for the game. Both teams have been physical with each other through 80 minutes, with the Caps out-hitting the B's, 40-35 Below are two .gifs for your viewing pleasure:

The remainder of the game – however long that may be – can be seen on NBC.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 2: Caps And Bruins Head To Overtime

The Boston Bruins tied game two of their first round series with the Washington Capitals at 1-1 in the third period. The game is now in overtime, for the second consecutive game.

Benoit Pouliot scored the goal for the Bruins, 12 minutes into the final period. Brian Rolston and Chris Kelly were the assisting parties. Below is a video of the game-tying goal.

The remainder of the game can be seen on NBC. Five minutes have elapsed in the overtime period. The Bruins have two shots on goal in the extra period, while the Caps have yet to attempt another shot. Tim Thomas has saved 28 of the 29 shots attempted against him.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Bruins vs. Capitals Game Two Third Period Live Blog

Boston trails entering a period for the first time this postseason, but it warrants mentioning that the Bruins had the

third-best record in the league this season when trailing after two. It may not be much, but it's something.

5:11 - The Early third period has seen teams trading chances, but Boston continues to struggle to get bodies in front of Holtby to make life difficult for the rookie goaltender. With an offensive surge, Washington evened the SOG at 24, but a big hit on Alexander Semin by Johnny Boychuk has given the Bruins some momentum.

5:18 - Boston's momentum continued to grow as the Bruins started to get bodies in front of the net and make Holtby uncomfortable, but the Capitals tilted the ice after a TV timeout. With less than 10 minutes to go, it's still 1-0, Washington.

Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 2: Caps Lead Bruins 1-0 After Two Periods

It took four periods, plus overtime, for the Washington Capitals to score a goal against the Bruins, but they finally got one past Tim Thomas in the second period of game two. The Caps now lead the B's, 1-0.

Troy Brouwer was the scorer of the goal, with Alex Ovechkin and Karl Alzner picking up assists.

The Bruins have out-shot the Capitals 22-16 in two periods, but trail by a goal going into the final period. Neither team has been able to convert a power play thus far, as the Bruins are 0-2 and the Capitals are 0-3.

The remainder of the game can be seen on NBC.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Bruins vs. Capitals Game Two Second Period Live Blog

Things have started to get chippy at TD Garden as we've played almost 90 minutes of regulation hockey in this series without a goal, and frustration started to rear its ugly head as Alex Ovechkin went after Dennis Seidenberg before puck drop in the Bruins end.

Boston has had its two best chances of the series this period, first with Brad Marchand whiffing on a puck in the crease in front of an empty net and minutes later, with Patrice Bergeron getting the puck open in the slot and pushing the puck off the side of the net.

With 11:50 left in the second, there's still no score.

4:30 - Gregory Campbell nearly broke the scoring barrier, getting alone in front of the net and re-directing a slapshot from the point..right into Braden Holtby's chest. TV Timeout.

4:36 - Boston kills a two-minute minor to Brad Marchand for a high-sticking that never really happened to John Carlson.

4:42 - A fluke shot trickles under Tim Thomas' pad to give Washington their first goal and first lead of the season. Thomas appeared to have the puck stopped before a Bruin player collided with him, pushing the puck into the net. Troy Brouwer was credited with the goal. Washington leads, 1-0.

Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 2: Boston, Washington Tied 0-0 After 1st Period

The low-scoring first round Playoff series between the Boston Bruins and Washington Capitals continues, as neither team has scored in the first period of game two.

Bruins goalie, Tim Thomas, has saved every shot attempted against him this series. The Caps attempted only 17 shots in Thursday's overtime loss, but look to surpass that total in game two, as they already have nine shots in the first period. The Bruins have 10 shots on goal.

Washington was 0-2 on power plays in the first period, while Boston was 0-1. Zdeno Chara and Chris Kelly both have picked up two minute penalties for the Bruins. Mike Green is responsible for the Caps only penalty.

The second period can be seen on NBC.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Bruins vs. Capitals First Period Live Blog

It took a while to find internet here at TD Garden, but it looks as if we're in okay shape now.

The ice has been a lot better this afternoon than it was on Thursday night, which has given the game more flow, and neither team is yet to take a decisive advantage, with shots (6-6) and goals (0-0) even halfway through the first period.

At the 9:52 mark of the first, the Bruins head to the power play with Mike Green off for hooking. The Bruins power play is 0-4 so far in the series.

3:40: Washington kills off the penalty to Green, and with 7:25 left in the first period, Chris Kelly goes to the sin bin for another phantom holding call, the second of the game against the Bruins.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Bruins Vs. Capitals Game 2: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

The Boston Bruins look to extend their 1-0 series lead on Saturday when they continue their first round matchup with the Washington Capitals in the 2012 NHL Playoffs.

The series opener resulted in a 1-0 overtime thriller, which the Bruins won 1:18 into the extra session when Chris Kelly drilled a slap shot past Braden Holtby. Tim Thomas needed to make only 17 saves for the Bruins in his sixth career playoff shutout, but he was matched most of the way by Holtby, a third-stringer making his playoff debut because of injuries to Washington's top two goaltenders.

Game Time: 3 p.m. ET, Saturday, April 14

TV Coverage: NBC

Location: TD Garden, Boston, MA

For everything Boston Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Washington Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Bruins Vs. Capitals: David Krejci Expects To Play In Game 2 After Being Struck On The Head By Glass Panel

Boston Bruins forward David Krejci told reporters on Friday that he thinks he will play in Game 2 against the Washington Capitals after being struck by a falling panel of glass during the celebration which followed Game 1.

After the Bruins secured a 1-0 overtime victory on Thursday night, fans pounded on the glass in celebration. One group of fans pounded a little too hard, toppling one of the glass boards and inadvertently striking Krejci on the head with it.

Krejci is listed as day-to-day after missing the Bruins' practice on Friday.

Video of the falling glass hitting Krejci follows courtesy of Larry Brown Sports:

For everything Boston Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Washington Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Bruins Vs. Capitals: David Krejci Struck By Falling Glass

The TD Garden celebration of Thursday night's overtime goal was raucous. For David Krejci, it was too raucous.

Krejci missed practice on Friday after being struck by a glass panel during the celebration which followed the Bruins' 2012 NHL Playoffs-opening 1-0 overtime win against the Washington Capitals.

Elated fans were banging on the glass when one of the glass panels was knocked loose and struck Krejci directly in the back of the head. The glass struck hard enough to knock Krejci to his knees on the ice.

According to radio commentator Bob Beers on 98.5 The Sports Hub, Krejci "looked okay" afterward, but the team has yet to release a statement about Krejci's status.

Video of the falling glass hitting Krejci follows courtesy of Larry Brown Sports:

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Bruins Prove Defense Ultimately Yields Results

They say that defense wins championships.

And how can you say differently after looking at Tim Thomas' historic Stanley Cup run last year? The Bruins goaltender put up one of the most impressive defensive playoff efforts by a single player in the history of the sport.

Not just Thomas, but the entire Bruins team knows how important it is to hold up defensively and provide a solid backend to an already stellar goaltender.

In the start of the playoffs on Wednesday night, where two of the three games ended with late goals and momentum swings, the need for solid defense became even more apparent, as both of the teams who stole those goals went on to take the first game of their respective series--and one game is one game.

The Bruins hoped to continue the trend, mentioning that those late goals and momentum swings were a result of taking breaks during a game. Even if it's just a shift off or an unfocused moment, captain Zdeno Chara said before the game that those kinds of things can happen to you.

"I didn't watch the whole thing, but I saw that Pittsburgh was up, Philly came back and tied the game and then won it at the end," Chara said, "So, it just tells you that you have to play for 60 [minutes] and it's never over until it's over."

Well, sometimes you have to play a little more than sixty minutes.

The Bruins came out in Game One of their series against Washington and put up more than sixty minutes of shutout hockey as they entered into overtime on Thursday. Chris Kelly scored the game winning goal 1:18 into extra time, but the Bruins defense maintained control of much of the game, including control over offensive powerhouse, Alex Ovechkin.

"It was all five guys on the ice, and it was a good job putting on some back pressure on him when he gets the puck and trying to disturb him as soon as possible," defenseman Dennis Seidenbergsaid. "Try not to give him speed or time to make plays or get a shot off and tonight we did a good job and we have to keep it up."

The B's only allowed 17 total shots on net, including just seven between the first two periods, and Tim Thomas extended his playoff shutout streak to another full game.

But while defense has been the storyline of this series, the B's also have to remember their offensive power. Tyler Seguin had team-high five shots in the game, while teammate Rich Peverley registered four.
"I don't know, in the past when we've played good defensively we usually score quite [an] amount of goals and our first priority is not getting scored on," Seidenberg said in regards to more defensive minded tactics give less focus on scoring. "From good defensive posture comes good offense and that's what you saw with the last goal. We had a good gap, we turned the puck over and went on the attack."

Not only did the defense hold the Capitals to 17 shots, they also completely shut down Alex Ovechkin who finished the night with just one shot on net with 17:34 of ice time.

"I think it was nice that our guys did a good job against him, but I also have to give him credit," Bruins head coach Claude Julien said. "He didn't back down. He played, and he played hard, and he knew he was going to be checked all night, and was going to be, you know, that we were going to have people on him as soon as he got the puck, and didn't have as much space as I'm sure he'd like to have, but I thought he played a decent game, you know, despite that."

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Media Roundup: NBC, NESN, CSNNE Gear Up For Bruins' Playoff Push

With the Boston Bruins beginning their push for a second consecutive Stanley Cup championship, networks such as NBC, NESN and Comcast SportsNet New England are gearing up to provide unique and outstanding coverage.

Bruins 1, Capitals 0 Final Score: Kelly Helps B's Take Game One

Last year during the Bruins historic playoff run, the players would award the MVP of the game with a 1980's style Starter Jacket which would then be passed on the next game. This year, the token was a little more different, and a little bit shinier.

The Bruins finished their first game of the playoffs with a 1-0 win over the Washington Capitals in overtime, courtesy of a slapshot from Chris Kelly early into the extra frame. As the Number One star of the game, and the proclaimed MVP of the night, Kelly earned a gigantic 20-link silver chain, that symbolizes the strength of the team, and "no weak links." The linked chain is padlocked, and on that lock is the Bruins symbol.

"It’s something, kind of like last year with the jacket, Andrew [Ference] made something that symbolizes a team, a chain," Kelly said. "Try not to be that weak link, and it’s one of those things that you pass out after a game. It’s one of those things that’s all in good fun. It just started for the playoffs."

Tim Thomas followed immediately by saying, "He wasn’t the weak link tonight."

Kelly's goal came at a crucial time in the game, not only because it was in sudden death overtime, but because the Bruins had come off their worst period of the game. In the third they were only able to come up with three shots on net, while allowing the Capitals nine of their own. That doesn't seem too bad until it's taken into account that they allowed just seven shots on net combined in the first two periods and accumulated 26 of their own.

While that would seemingly frustrate many players, Bruins defenseman Dennis Seidenberg said that getting shots was the important thing, and keeping a cool mind while doing it was even moreso.

"That’s what playoff hockey is about, staying patient, playing strong defensively and staying consistent with what you do and not getting scored on," Seidenberg said. "And then once you get a chance you try to just get a goal like we did in overtime and go with it."

While they tried to stay positive in that department, there were some gaping holes in their play that didn't go unnoticed--most notably the power play.

Though it has glaring similarities to last year's playoff run, the Bruins went an uninspiring 0-for-4 with the man-advantage, including a four-minute double minor penalty late in the first period that carried over to the second. Though it didn't come back to bite them in this game, it should be an aspect of the game that they can change and improve for the rest of the series.

But if there's one thing to maintain, it's the dominance of Tim Thomas. Thomas was only forced to make 17 saves, but ten of those were in the third period and overtime. Through the first forty minutes of play, he would go an extended amount of time without seeing a single shot, and then the next minute have to make a breath-taking save. While his counterpart on the other end of the ice, Braden Holtby also showed extreme poise on the ice, Thomas started where he left off--with a shutout win.

"I mean he was fantastic," Bruins defenseman Greg Zanon said. "Playoffs are a little different, everybody’s aware and you know what’s going on. I know, what was it, he had seven shots after two periods, but he’s mentally strong, he’s always prepared. I mean he made some big saves for us down the stretch that obviously kept us in the game and gave us the opportunity to win."

The Bruins continue the series on Saturday for Game Two at TD Garden and the puck drops at 3 p.m.

ANIMATED: Bruins' Chris Kelly's Game 1 Overtime Winner Against Capitals

Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 1: Chris Kelly Notches Game Winner In Overtime

The Boston Bruins were frustrated throughout regulation against the Washington Capitals on Thursday night. They held a 30-17 advantage in shots on goal, including a 17-2 advantage in the second period, yet somehow they could not find a way past third-stringer Braden Holtby between the pipes.

The 0-0 tie didn't last long in overtime, however. Tim Thomas made a foot save on a good look by Marcus Johansson, sending the rebound out to Brian Rolston, who gave the puck to Benoit Pouliot who gave the puck to Chris Kelly streaking down the left side of the ice. Kelly's slapshot from the top of the circle went just over Holtby's left shoulder to give the Bruins a 1-0 win and a 1-0 lead in their opening series of the 2012 NHL Playoffs.

The Bruins were in danger of losing their cool completely in the third period. They were outshot 9-3 during the period after 40 minutes of relatively dominant hockey. Holtby, just 22 years old, is considered a prime goaltending talent in his own right, but would not have been on the ice if not for injuries to Tomas Vokoun and Michal Neuvirth. He played spectacularly, however, turning back 29 of 30 shots faced.

Thomas earned shutout and the win, however, stopping all 16 shots faced on the night. The Bruins' defense did a great job keeping his jersey clean for the most part, though they faded late in regulation and in overtime. Still, holding Alex Ovechkin to just one shot on goal despite a full slate of minutes has to be considered a victory in itself.

The Bruins went 0-for-4 on their powerplay chances, which included a 4-on-3 for 1:36 midway through their second period onslaught. It will be interesting to see who starts in net for the Caps for Game 2 if Neuvirth is healthy. He traveled to Boston for Thursday's game, and may be ready to come back from a lower body injury. Holtby is clearly the hot hand right now, however.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 1: Scoreless Through 3 Periods, Headed To Overtime

The Boston Bruins and the Washington Capitals are still scoreless after three minutes, and will need overtime to determine a winner of Game 1 of their opening series of the 2012 NHL Playoffs. After a dominant second period in which they outshot the Capitals 17-2 but came up empty, the Bruins showed their frustration in the third. Milan Lucic at one point began banging the door to the bench to rile up his team as Boston was outshot 9-3 for the period.

Braden Holtby remains unsolvable, despite making a desperation start in place of the injured Michael Neuvirth and Thomas Vokoun. The 22-year-old has 29 saves on the night, in what has turned into a tremendous duel with Tim Thomas (16 saves).

As one might expect from the scoreboard, the game has so far featured plenty of hits. While Boston seemed to be in the driver's seat through two periods, a shaky third period has this game too close to call with sudden death looming.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

Bruins Vs. Capitals, 2012 NHL Playoffs Game 1: Boston Dominates But Can't Find Net, Game Tied 0-0 After 2nd Period

The Boston Bruins continued to dominate the Washington Capitals during the second period of Game 1 of their opening series of the 2012 NHL Playoffs. Despite now outshooting the Caps 26-7 for the game and 17-2 for the period, Boston could not put the puck past Braden Holtby. After 40 minutes, the game is still tied 0-0.

The Bruins had plenty of scoring opportunities, but Holtby is playing an absolute gem so far in the first postseason game of his career. While the game has disappointed on the scoreboard, there has been plenty of physicality on both ends of the ice. John Carlson began shoving David Krejci after Krejci have Holtby a push. The ensuing scuffle resulted in 4-on-4 hockey, which became 4-on-3 in favor of the Bruins after Marcus Johansson was booked for tripping. Again Boston had plenty of opportunities, and again they came up empty.

Alex Ovechkin has been completely bottled up on the night, which is no accident. The Bruins have focused plenty of attention on the Russian superstar throughout the night, not allowing him to get into scoring position much less stay upright.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

GIF: Alex Ovechkin Hit Hard By Dennis Seidenberg During 2nd Period

The Boston Bruins have bottled up Alex Ovechkin very effectively during Game 1 of their 2012 NHL Playoffs series against the Washington Capitals. Coming to the close of the second period, the Caps' have attempted just seven shots on goal, none of which have come from the Russian superstar. Dennis Seidenberg gave us a great example of what Ovi has had to deal with this game. He knocked himself and Ovechkin off balance with a shoulder check midway through the period.

The game remains tied 0-0 despite plenty of scoring opportunities for the Bruins. Braden Holtby remains unbeatable in net at the moment, though if Boston continues to outshoot Washington at their current 26-7 clip they are bound to finally put one between the pipes.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

NHL Playoffs 2012, Bruins Vs. Capitals Game 1 First Period Score: Game Still Scoreless

The Boston Bruins and the Washington Capitals are off to sluggish starts so far through the first period of Game 1 of their first round series in the 2012 NHL Playoffs. Through 20 minutes, neither team has been able to light up the scoreboard. The Bruins hold a slight advantage momentum-wise, recording nine shots on goal to five for the Caps.

Defending Conn Smythe Trophy winner Tim Thomas has been solid in net, though that's to be expected. Braden Holtby is making his playoff debut for the Capitals but has shown no signs of nerves despite facing a much heavier onslaught. The Bruins have held Alex Ovechkin completely in check, keeping him from even recording a shot on goal.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

GIF: David Krejci Slams Dennis Wideman Head First Into The Boards During Game 1

Both the Boston Bruins and the Washington Capitals are off to slow starts during the first period Game 1 of the 2012 NHL Playoffs. Nearing the end of the first period, neither team has been able to light up the scoreboard yet on a combined 13 shots on goal. There have been a few heavy hits, however, perhaps none bigger than David Krejci's slamming former Bruin Dennis Wideman head first into the boards.

The hit deservedly drew the first penalty of the game, but the Caps' were unable to capitalize. So far, the Bruins heavy been slightly more aggressive, recording nine shots on goal to five for Washington.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

NHL Playoffs 2012, Bruins Vs. Capitals Game 1 Live Blog: Score Updates And Analysis

NHL Playoffs 2012, Bruins Vs. Capitals Game 1: Game Time, TV Coverage And More

The Bruins will take on the Capitals on Thursday night in game one of the Eastern Conference quarterfinals. Tim Thomas and Zdeno Chara will aim to shut down the Alexander Ovechkin-led Capitals offensive attack.

NHL Playoffs 2012: Analyzing The Eastern Conference Playoff Picture

The 2012 NHL Playoffs are upon us, and the matchups this year should provide just as much thrilling action as in years past. Here's a look at what to expect from the Eastern Conference this spring.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Adam McQuaid Injury Update: Bruins' Defenseman Out For Game 1

Boston Bruins coach Claude Julien announced Wednesday that defenseman Adam McQuaid will not play in the team's Stanley Cup Playoff-opening game against the Washington Capitals on Thursday night.

Ironically, McQuaid originally injured himself on March 29 against the Capitals after being hit by Jason Chimera. McQuaid needed 18 stitches in his eye after the incident and missed the three subsequent games. He did return to the lineup on April 5, but the return was not for long after he told the trainers he didn't feel well enough to continue.

The Bruins also announced Wednesday that Nathan Horton will miss the entire 2012 NHL Playoffs due to a concussion suffered on Jan. 22.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

NHL Playoffs 2012: Which Boston Bruins Player Must Step Up Vs. Washington Capitals?

Who will step it up for the Boston Bruins in the 2012 NHL Playoffs? How about netminder Tim Thomas? In last season's Stanley Cup winning run, Thomas was 16-9 with a 1.98 GAA, .940 save percentage and four shutouts. Thomas' regular season numbers weren't as sparkling as last season but if he's 90% of what he was in last year's playoffs, the Bruins could make another run.

What about the fourth line guys? The grinders are important in wearing down the opposition over the course of a series but they also provided some scoring punch last year's playoffs.

How about Milan Lucic? Lucic was third on the team in scoring during the regular season with 26 goals. He's had five goals in each of the past two playoffs.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

2012 NHL Playoffs, Bruins Vs. Capitals: Boston Needs Discipline In Round One

The Boston Bruins ended an up-and-down regular season strongly to enter the 2012 NHL Playoffs with a bit of momentum, which they will test against the Washington Capitals in the first round.

SB Nation's Angie Lewis previews the matchup, breaking down which team has the advantage in each portion of the game and what each team needs to accomplish to win the series.

Lewis gives the Bruins an edge in offense, defense and goaltending, but believes the Capitals have better special teams. She predicts Boston will win if it maintains discipline.

BRUINS WILL WIN IF ... they play disciplined hockey. The Caps can hurt the Bruins if their power play clicks and gets their top players going without the pressure of matchups. Thus, it would work in Boston's favor to stay out the box. Not only in penalty stats, but also it would be best for the B's to just not get too caught up in trying to repeat. Taking it one game at a time keeps them focused and not so arrogant or loose that they forget to take out the Caps.

For everything Bruins related, check out Stanley Cup Of Chowder. For more news, analysis, and discussion on Capitals hockey, head to Japers' Rink. You can also head over to the SB Nation NHL hub page for more on hockey news as the playoffs begin.

NHL Playoffs 2012: Bruins Face Off Against Capitals In Opening Round

They're back and just as hungry as last year. Tim Thomas and the Boston Bruins will face Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals in the first round of the 2012 Stanley Cup Playoffs, which begins Thursday night in Boston.

Boston Bruins Playoff Preview: Determined B's Face Tough Task Ahead

One year removed from their historic run to the Stanley Cup Finals, Tim Thomas and the Boston Bruins will try to defy the odds and bring home the city's second straight Stanley Cup. First up, Alex Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals.