Boston Bruins vs. Carolina Hurricanes: Top 3 takeaways from Game 3

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Jaroslav Halak #41 of the Boston Bruins (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

Though Game 3 between the Boston Bruins and Carolina Hurricanes was a low scoring affair, it sure was an exciting one, as the Bruins held on to win 3-1.

The first two games of the series between the Carolina Hurricanes and Boston Bruins saw a combined 12 goals in a shade over seven full periods. Game 3 was much different, as it was a relatively low-scoring affair that saw the Bruins come out on top 3-1.

It was an impressive win for Boston, who overcame some significant obstacles. For the first time in this year’s Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Bruins team flaunted their experience. The Hurricanes certainly didn’t lose from a lack of trying, but now they’ve got to go back to the old drawing board and see if they can figure out a way to solve the Bruins defense.

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Here are three takeaways from Game 3.

1. Halak Steps Up

Saturday started off a bit weird for the Boston Bruins. Star goaltender Tuukka Rask elected to opt-out of the postseason, citing family reasons. The Bruins deserve a lot of credit for standing behind him and letting him return home to his family. These times are unprecedented and, as a recent uncle, I completely understand Tuukka’s desire to be with his family. Family comes first in life.

This put a lot of pressure on Jaroslav Halak to come in and be the Bruins starting goalie. If Halak was nervous in Game 3, it didn’t show. Yes, he had a comical mishap, as he basically gifted the Hurricanes a goal with an unfortunate clear, but Halak was otherwise perfect.

Credit Halak for stepping up to replace Rask. This shows how much of a family the Bruins are. When a member of the family falls, you help them and support them. Halak has a track record of postseason success, so maybe he can help the Bruins contend for the Stanley Cup. He certainly looked good on Saturday.

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