The league-leading Bruins entered their two-game Florida swing expecting a couple of playoff-like tilts.
Bruce Cassidy’s squad took care of business in Tampa two nights prior against a talented Lightning squad hoping to cut into Boston’s lead in the Atlantic Division. A mere 48 hours later, they faced a desperate Panthers bunch just hoping to stay within striking distance of a playoff spot.
Like Tuesday, the Bruins needed to grind out a victory. This time, in the midst of their ‘B’ game, they needed the 3-on-3 overtime session to accomplish the feat.
Jaroslav Halak (32 saves) made some spectacular stops in the closing moments — including a breakaway attempt on Alex Barkov — to give the Bruins a chance.