Bruins Steamroll Blue Jackets in Another Lopsided Loss

Odd-man rushes blow up in their face. Innocent opportunities and mistakes wind up in their net. And their special teams continue to let them down. No matter what they do 5-on-5, it’s a Herculean task to get the puck in the net.

And as a result, you get games like tonight’s in Boston.

They were outplayed from the first period on, and once again had a difficult time generating dangerous shots and scoring chances. Much of their limited activity was from around the perimeter, and they didn't have many quality looks until the third period, but it was far too late for a rally given the way they've been going offensively.

Late in a dominant first period, Brad Marchand opened the scoring after Pierre-Luc Dubois lost his check in the high slot. After Cam Atkinson missed consecutive breakaway chances early in the second period, Seth Jones caught up-ice shorthanded and the Bruins came down the other way and made it 2-0.

A second power play goal from Charlie McAvoy – who would later drop the gloves with Dubois – gave the Bruins a commanding 3-0 lead. Josh Anderson's 13th goal of the season broke Tuukka Rask's shutout bid in the third period, but the Bruins kindly responded with four goals late in regulation to pile on to an already-dreadful Columbus showing.

In two of their last four games, the Blue Jackets have allowed seven goals. They allowed four goals in a win over the New York Islanders, and desperately need to get themselves righted in what's become a frustrating stretch of hockey.

Injury Update

Ryan Murray reportedly skated in full gear back in Columbus while the team was on the road. No official timetable has been offered for a potential return.

Next Up

The Blue Jackets are back at Nationwide Arena on Wednesday when they take on the Toronto Maple Leafs. Make note: it's a 7:30 p.m. start time.

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