Following a 3-2 loss, Coach Jim Montgomery remained steadfast in his decision to start Linus Ullmark over Jeremy Swayman in Game 2 of the Boston Bruins‘ Stanley Cup playoff series against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Monday night.
Ullmark, who made 30 saves, was given the nod in goal despite Swayman’s stellar performance, saving 35 shots in Boston’s 5-1 triumph over the Leafs in Game 1.
“There are no second guesses,” stated Montgomery. “He was outstanding and made numerous crucial saves.”
Leading up to Monday’s game, Montgomery declined to disclose the starting goaltender amid inquiries about maintaining the Bruins’ established rotation. Boston had adhered strictly to alternating between Swayman and Ullmark since February; Monday marked the 28th consecutive game following this pattern.
Montgomery refrained from public comment on the matter, leaving speculation to linger until the warmups of Game 2.
Ultimately, Montgomery faced a difficult decision. Ullmark, the reigning Vezina Trophy recipient, and Swayman both boasted impressive regular-season statistics. Swayman posted a 25-10-8 record with a .916 save percentage and 2.53 goals-against average, while Ullmark held a 22-10-7 record with a 2.57 GAA.
Given Swayman’s 3-0-0 record against Toronto in the regular season, he seemed a natural choice for Game 1. However, Ullmark’s performance in Game 2 was equally commendable, providing Boston with ample opportunity to secure a 2-0 series lead over Toronto.
Despite the Bruins taking an early 2-1 lead over the Leafs in the first period, Toronto managed to level the score at 2-2 heading into the third period, thanks to a power play goal from John Tavares.
With the series now tied at 1-1, Game 3 is set for Wednesday in Toronto. Montgomery’s immediate focus is not on the goaltender for the next game but on enhancing the Bruins’ performance in front of whoever earns the next start.
Meanwhile, Maple Leafs forward William Nylander was absent from Game 2 due to an undisclosed injury and has yet to make an appearance in the series. Game 3 presents a crucial opportunity for both teams to gain the upper hand.
