Sharks vs Bruins predictions
The San Jose Sharks are set to face off against the Boston Bruins, and while on paper it might look like an uphill battle for the Sharks, the team has a few wild cards up their sleeves. Tyler Toffoli, despite being the team's goal leader, won't be taking the ice due to an injury, which puts more weight on Mikael Granlund's shoulders. Granlund, dealing with a lower body issue himself, is leading the Sharks in assists and total points. If he can suit up, his ability to create scoring opportunities could be pivotal. The Sharks' road trip stats haven't been stellar, but with Granlund's playmaking still in the mix, maybe they'll find a way to spark some offense.
Switching to the Boston Bruins, fans will be eagerly watching the performance of David Pastrnak, who has been consistently showcasing his prowess on the ice. With 21 goals and 30 assists, Pastrnak is the driving force behind the Bruins' offense. However, his day-to-day injury status leaves a question mark over his availability. If he can play, opponents need to watch out for his knack for finding the back of the net and facilitating plays. The Bruins' home record suggests they're comfortable at TD Garden, and Pastrnak's participation could boost their confidence even more.
So, who will come out on top when these two teams clash at the TD Garden? The odds might favor the Bruins, but this doesn't necessarily spell doom for the Sharks. If Granlund can step up and the Sharks' depth players rise to the occasion, they could potentially provide an upset. Still, considering the Bruins' strong home presence and Pastrnak's impact—even if it’s off the bench—the scale might tip towards Boston holding fort and clinching this out-of-conference matchup. It should be an exciting game, keeping fans on the edge of their seats until the final buzzer.