For years, hockey teams have relied on a single goaltender for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, even if they had two capable performers. However, the Boston Bruins are challenging this tradition in the 2023-24 season, continuing their goalie rotation strategy that helped them set NHL records with 65 wins and 135 points during the regular season.
In the first round of the playoffs last year, the Bruins went with Linus Ullmark as their starting goalie, but they were surprisingly eliminated by the Florida Panthers in seven games. This season, coach Jim Montgomery had to decide whether to stick with Ullmark, go with Jeremy Swayman, or continue the rotation.
Montgomery kept his decision close to the vest, not revealing his starter until pre-game warm-ups. Swayman got the nod for Game 1 against the Toronto Maple Leafs and was outstanding in the 5-1 victory. For Game 2, Montgomery once again waited until warm-ups to announce his starter, with Ullmark taking the reps.
Ullmark played well in Game 2, making 31 saves, but the Bruins lost 3-2, tying the series 1-1. Montgomery has not officially announced his starter for Game 3, but it is likely that Swayman will get the nod.
The Bruins’ success with a goalie rotation is challenging the traditional belief that teams should rely on a single goaltender for the playoffs. It remains to be seen whether they can continue their success in the postseason with this strategy, but they have certainly made a statement so far.
