For the first time in their history, the Boston Bruins traveled to Utah to face off against the newly formed Utah Hockey Club. This game marked Boston’s second contest in a three-game Western Conference road trip.
Despite holding a one-goal lead late in the third period, the Bruins couldn’t maintain their perfect record. They conceded the game-tying goal before surrendering the game-winner in overtime shortly after a penalty expired, falling 2-1.
### Struggles for Boston’s Top-Nine Forwards Continue
Boston’s offensive woes were a recurring theme in this match. The Bruins’ only goal came from fourth-liner Cole Koepke in the second period, who has emerged as the team’s top scorer with six points in as many games. Koepke’s effort, aided by strong play from linemates Mark Kastelic and John Beecher, gave Boston a brief lead after he raced down the right side and slotted a perfect shot between the legs of Utah’s goalie Connor Ingram.
However, the top-nine forwards, including stars like Pavel Zacha, David Pastrnak, and Brad Marchand, once again struggled to generate offense. Collectively, they managed just five shots at even strength. The Bruins also only generated five high-danger chances at 5-on-5 play, their second-lowest total of the season. The power play was equally ineffective, going 0-for-3 with minimal pressure on Utah’s defense.
### Swayman’s Strong Performance Not Enough
Goaltender Jeremy Swayman was solid, stopping 30 of 32 shots for a .938 save percentage. He was crucial in keeping Boston in the game, especially when the team was outshot on four Utah power plays. Although Swayman allowed the tying goal late in the third period and the overtime winner by Michael Kesselring, neither could be fully blamed on him due to defensive breakdowns in front of him.
### Looking Ahead to Nashville
Boston leaves Salt Lake City with a single point, heading into their final game of the road trip against the struggling Nashville Predators. With three points secured from two games, the Bruins will aim to finish strong and make necessary adjustments as the season progresses.
