Oct 16, 2024; Denver, Colorado, USA; Boston Bruins center John Beecher (19) celebrates his empty net goal and center Mark Kastelic (47), defenseman Nikita Zadorov (91), left wing Cole Koepke (45) and defenseman Brandon Carlo (25) in the third period against the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

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Boston Bruins Continue Strong Season as Colorado Avalanche Struggle to Find Their Footing

David Pastrnak and the Bruins continue their strong start of the season

The Boston Bruins extended their promising season on Wednesday night with a 5-3 win over the Colorado Avalanche, adding to the Avalanche’s early-season struggles.

While the Boston Bruins used the match to showcase their depth and team synergy, Colorado found itself in a deeper hole, facing an extended winless streak for the first time in over two decades.

The game was marked by Boston’s sharp offensive plays and Colorado’s mixed performance in response, raising questions about the Avalanche’s ability to find rhythm amid recent injuries.

Colorado’s Defensive Struggles and Growing Streak

For Colorado, the loss highlighted what has been a frustrating start to the season. This skid, now four games long, is the franchise’s worst since the 1998-99 season.

At that time, they rebounded pretty well and reach the Western Conference final with the help of legends like Joe Sakic, Peter Forsberg, and Patrick Roy.

With today’s roster, laden with stars like Mikko Rantanen, Nathan MacKinnon, and Cale Makar, the Avalanche is capable of doing so.

Still, defensive struggles and goalie Alexandar Georgiev’s 17 goals allowed over the last four games have kept the Avalanche on the back foot.

Boston Bruins’ Offensive Depth Shines Through

Boston, on the other hand, made full use of their opportunities and built an early lead that gave them breathing room despite Colorado’s attempts to rally.

David Pastrnak and Hampus Lindholm scored back-to-back goals within seconds of each other, further solidifying Boston’s dominance. “Pasta” has now 4 goals in five games played this season.

David Pastrnak now with four goals in five games. pic.twitter.com/pOT7D6pkDQ
— Conor Ryan (@ConorRyan_93) October 17, 2024

Goals from Cole Koepke and Charlie Coyle gave the Boston Bruins a 4-1 lead by the middle of the second period, and while Colorado cut the lead to 4-3, an empty-net goal by John Beecher with two minutes left secured Boston’s win.

A Memorable NHL Debut for Matt Stienburg

One notable moment came from Colorado forward Matt Stienburg, who made his NHL debut and engaged in a spirited skirmish with former teammate Nikita Zadorov.

Stienburg’s father, capturing the moment on video from the stands, witnessed his son fulfill a dream shared by many: to play in the NHL.

Adding sentiment to the moment, Stienburg grew up looking up to Boston’s Brad Marchand, a fellow native of Halifax, Nova Scotia.

What’s Next for Both Teams?

Looking forward, the Avalanche will face Anaheim at home as they attempt to snap their losing streak, while the Boston Bruins will travel to Utah, hoping to continue their strong start to the season.

Photo Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Boston Bruins

Colorado Avalanche

David Pastrnak

Charles Taudin

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Global Editorial Chief of The Playoffs, I created The Free Agent, which became The Playoffs FR, in 2020 during the pandemic. A longtime fan of the four major American sports, I now oversee the editorial strategy and social media for all versions of The Playoffs. I still occasionally write about sports I’m particularly passionate about, such as the NFL or MLB. If there’s one thing you should remember: Eli Manning is the true GOAT for beating Tom Brady twice.