In a gripping display of physicality, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins pushed the envelope in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series. Following intense battles in the opening games, the two rivals escalated the physicality, registering a staggering 60 hits in a scoreless first period alone. As the intensity mounted, defenseman Simon Benoit leveled Bruins star winger David Pastrnak with a punishing hit, moments before forward Ryan Reaves delivered a similar blow to center Pavel Zacha. The two heavy hits ignited the crowd at Scotiabank Arena, setting the stage for a relentless playoff clash. Over the first two games, the Leafs and Bruins combined for an astonishing 200 hits, a testament to the grueling nature of the series. The scoreboard remained close after the Bruins’ 5-1 victory in Game 1, with only a goal separating the two teams over the last four periods. As the series intensifies, the physical battles are expected to continue, promising a captivating showdown between these longtime rivals.
Toronto Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins Brawl in Bitter Playoff Clash
