Boston Bruins: Game 7 will be Ryan Donato’s breakout game
By Sam Minton
The Boston Bruins need a finisher to score some goals for them on Wednesday night. They have a 21-year-old rookie who fits that role and is chomping at the bit to get some playing time.
The Boston Bruins have had issues scoring as of late. Frederik Andersen has been playing great, but the Bruins seem to be missing some opportunities. The B’s have had Ryan Donato watch the game from the 9th floor for the majority of the series, but now it is time for the rookie to shine.
After scoring 12 goals in the first two games, the Bruins have gone on to score only 9 goals. The Bruins have had issues finishing in front of the net and making Andersen’s life difficult. Donato may be able to change that.
Donato proved during his short stint with the Bruins that he can still score against some of the leagues best talent. In just 12 games he was able to score 5 goals and had 4 assists.
A breath of fresh air
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Donato has a great wrist shot and could bring a change of pace to the Bruins. The lineup the Bruins have trotted out for 4 straight games hasn’t been able to crack Andersen. The Bruins need someone who will challenge Andersen and make him work on Wednesday night.
Donato was unable to secure a point in Game 2, but it is unfair to judge him on a single game. Also, he will be skating on fresh legs. A lot of players will be tired as they play their 7th game, Donato may be able to take advantage and get some good scoring opportunities.
I can already imagine Donato scoring the game-winning goal making Bruce Cassidy look like hockey’s Bill Belichick. Bring back the young 2nd line of Jake DeBrusk, David Krejci, and Donato.
Next: 3 keys to winning game 7
The Bruins need a hero on Wednesday night, and they have their Peter Parker. All Cassidy has to do is give him a chance.