Andrei Svechnikov, RW: 30 goals, 39 assists, 69 points
Frederik Andersen, G: 35-14-3, .922 SV%, 2.17 GAA, 4 shutouts
Bruins leaders:
Boston Bruins right wing David Pastrnak (88) is congratulated by center Patrice Bergeron (37), left wing Taylor Hall (71) and left wing Brad Marchand (63) (Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports)
The Canes dominated Boston during the regular season, sweeping the three games by a combined score of 16-1.
Carolina is looking to take that next step as a legitimate Stanley Cup Final contender behind a defense and a penalty kill that has been the best in the NHL. The B’s are no defensive slouches either, playing a similar game, as they rank fourth in the league.
Boston’s “Perfection Line” had another strong season yet again, but have plenty to prove in the postseason after they were shut down by the Islanders — who play a similar defensive style as the Canes — last season.
An obvious looming question mark, though, is the status of Carolina goalie Frederik Andersen. If he’s unavailable, the Canes still has a dependable backup in Antti Raanta, who went 15-5-4 with a 2.45 GAA and .912 SV% in 2021-22.
Boston’s veteran top line will be combated by Carolina’s youthful attack headlined by Sebastian Aho (24) and Andrei Svechnikov (21), who combined for 67 goals and 150 points this season. In total, five Hurricanes skaters recorded at least 51 points.