Sun Jan 18 00:40:00 UTC 2026: # Bruins Ride Home Ice Momentum into Road Trip After Chara Jersey Retirement
The Story:
The Boston Bruins capped off a perfect five-game homestand with a 4-2 victory over the Seattle Kraken on Thursday, fueled by the emotional retirement ceremony of former captain Zdeno Chara’s No. 33 jersey. The Bruins, holding one of the Eastern Conference’s wild-card playoff spots, now embark on a road trip, starting with a Saturday night game against the Chicago Blackhawks. Coach Marco Sturm credited the team’s consistent third-period performance and strong goaltending for their recent success.
Key Points:
* Bruins finished a five-game homestand with a 5-0 record.
* They outscored opponents 22-5 during the homestand.
* Zdeno Chara’s No. 33 jersey was retired before Thursday’s game against Seattle.
* The Bruins avenged their lone regulation loss in the last nine games with the win against Seattle.
* The Bruins will face the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday at the United Center.
* Defenseman Andrew Peeke is expected to travel with the team despite a lower-body injury.
* Chicago is on a three-game home losing streak.
Key Takeaways:
* The Bruins are building momentum at a crucial point in the season as they battle for a playoff spot.
* Zdeno Chara’s jersey retirement served as a catalyst for an emotional and inspiring win.
* Consistent third-period performance is a key factor in the Bruins’ recent success.
* The upcoming road trip will test the Bruins’ ability to maintain their winning form away from home.
* The Blackhawks, despite a strong penalty kill, are struggling, making this a potentially favorable matchup for Boston.