Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NHL match.
Neither side has much to play for at this stage of the season, with both teams all but out of the playoff picture. That said, the Anaheim Ducks have shown signs of life in recent outings, especially on home ice, while the Boston Bruins are in freefall with a six-game losing skid and rock-bottom confidence.
Anaheim Ducks
The Ducks have picked up two wins in their last five, both against the Nashville Predators (2:1, 4:1), and only came up short against sides currently in playoff positions. They’ve been solid at home, collecting points in 50% of their games at the Honda Center. Rookie standout Leo Carlsson has impressed with six points (2+4) in his last eight appearances. Importantly, the Ducks already have one win over the Boston Bruins this season — a 3:2 overtime triumph in which they led 2:0 in regulation.
Boston Bruins
The Bruins are in dire straits. Their six-game losing streak has seen them ship 29 goals and score just 11 in return. The latest blow came against the Los Angeles Kings— a heavy 7:3 defeat in which Jeremy Swayman posted a career-worst 69.6% save percentage. Since the turn of the year, the Bruins have managed just three away wins and hold the worst road record in the East (36% point percentage). The injury list continues to grow: with Brad Marchand, Charlie Coyle, Charlie McAvoy, and Hampus Lindholm already out, Mark Kastelic has now joined them on the sidelines. All eyes are on David Pastrnak, but even he’s gone quiet — just two assists in his last five.
Anaheim Ducks vs Boston Bruins Prediction
The Anaheim Ducks look the more cohesive unit right now, with home form to back it up and a win already under their belt against the Boston Bruins this season. The Bruins’ road woes and deepening injury crisis leave little room for optimism.
