NHL Playoff Recap: Blue Jackets vs. Bruins – Game 4
In a high-stakes clash at TD Garden, the Columbus Blue Jackets edged the Boston Bruins 3-2. This win levels the Eastern Conference semifinal series at two games apiece, intensifying the battle as both teams vie for control on the path to the Stanley Cup.
How the Game Unfolded
From the first puck drop, the tension was palpable. The Bruins came out strong, peppering Blue Jackets goaltender Joonas Korpisalo with shots. Yet, it was Columbus who struck first. At 12:34 of the opening frame, a deft backhand pass from Oliver Bjorkstrand found Zach Werenski, who fired a laser past Boston’s Tuukka Rask, igniting the Jackets’ bench.
But Boston responded well, tying it shortly after. A scramble in front of the net ended with David Pastrnak nudging a puck past Korpisalo to make it 1-1. The first period closed with both teams trading chances but remaining even on the scoreboard.
The second period saw the Blue Jackets reclaim the lead. A power play opportunity presented itself when Charlie McAvoy went to the box for interference. Columbus capitalized, with Cam Atkinson blasting a shot from the circle past Rask, restoring their lead to 2-1. Boston pushed back again, showing their resilience. Just three minutes later, Brad Marchand tipped in a point shot during a chaotic sequence in front of the net, knotting the game at two.
As the teams entered the third period, the intensity ramped up. Both goaltenders made crucial saves, with Korpisalo denying a breakaway chance from Jake DeBrusk. The defining moment came with just over five minutes left. Pierre-Luc Dubois, showcasing his strength and skill, corralled a loose puck in the Bruins’ zone and unleashed a wrist shot that found its mark, giving Columbus a critical 3-2 lead.
Turning Points and Key Sequences
The turning point of this game was undoubtedly Dubois’ goal, which shifted momentum firmly in Columbus’s favor. With less than six minutes remaining and the Bruins pressing for the equalizer, Columbus had to rely on their stellar defensive play and disciplined penalty killing to hold onto the lead.
Coaching decisions played a significant role as well. Blue Jackets’ coach John Tortorella made effective line changes and deployed his forwards wisely on the power play, getting unfettered shots on Rask. Meanwhile, Bruins coach Bruce Cassidy opted to double down on his defensive strategies, pulling Rask late in an effort to equalize, but ultimately, it didn’t pay off.
Standout Performances
Korpisalo was a fierce wall for the Blue Jackets, finishing the night with 33 saves, including a jaw-dropping robbery on a point-blank shot from Marchand. His ability to maintain composure in the crease was integral to Columbus’s success.
On the offensive side, Dubois was the standout player, not only scoring the game-winner but also dominating possession and creating numerous scoring chances. Atkinson’s contribution on the power play showcased his sharpshooting ability, while Werenski’s early goal set the tone for Columbus.
For the Bruins, Rask played admirably despite the loss, stopping 29 shots. His performance kept Boston competitive throughout the game. Marchand’s relentless forechecking and drive to the net reaffirmed why he’s one of the league’s most impactful forwards in playoff time.
Series or Playoff Context
With this victory, the Blue Jackets have swung the momentum back to an even series, now tied at 2-2. This outcome gives Columbus a significant boost in confidence as they head back to their arena, where home-ice advantage could be crucial. The tight nature of this series reflects the evenly matched talents of both teams, with each game feeling like a battle for supremacy.
Pressure now shifts to Boston, as they must regain their dominant identity in Game 5. With their recent loss, the Bruins will need to recalibrate and address their defensive lapses, particularly those involving turnovers in critical areas.
What Comes Next
The next showdown will take place on Saturday at Nationwide Arena in Columbus. As the teams prepare for Game 5, the key tactical questions will revolve around how both sides will adapt their offensive strategies and utilize power plays more effectively. With both teams showcasing deep rosters filled with talent, every matchup—the best-on-best battles—will be critical.
For fans keeping a close watch, who should the Blue Jackets target in the Bruins’ defense moving forward? What adjustment do you think Boston needs to focus on before Game 5?
