( Photo Credit: Tessa McAndrews / Providence Bruins )

By: Kenny Kaminsky | Follow me on Twitter/X @KennyKaminsky

After a tough loss against the Laval Rocket last night, the Providence Bruins aim to build on their success during their three-game Canadian road trip by facing the Laval Rocket at Bell Place for a rematch Today at 3 pm. Michael DiPietro started last night against the Rocket, so it is likely that his tandem partner, Brandon Bussi, will take the net in hopes of securing his first win of the season. This upcoming game will be a significant test for Providence, as they suffered a tough loss to the Rocket at the beginning of the season, falling 5-2. This matchup will demonstrate how much the team has improved over the past few weeks.

To kick off the Providence Bruins’ 2024-25 campaign, the Baby B’s faced one of the top teams in the North Division: the Laval Rocket. The Rocket dominated in shots and appeared much more synchronized throughout the game. As the affiliate of the Montreal Canadiens, the Habs should be pleased with their defensive depth in the American Hockey League.

Notably, defensemen scored four of the Rocket’s five goals that night. One significant change for Laval this season is the departure of first-round pick Logan Mailloux. Mailloux was just sent back down and will be in the lineup for the game. He had an impressive performance against the Bruins, scoring four points in the opening game. The Rocket have a record of 7-1-0, having won their last six games.

The Bruins have experienced a rollercoaster season, but the team is looking more optimistic following recent line changes. In their last game, they finally made progress on the power play and received scoring contributions from various players. Coach Ryan Mougenal needs to address the number of penalties the team has committed during crucial game moments.

Wednesday’s game illustrated that no one is immune to criticism, as even the calmest players took poor penalties that turned the game in favor of the Senators. This disrupted the Bruins’ offensive play, and if it hadn’t been for Michael DiPietro, the outcome could have been much worse.

Netminder Jakub Dobes is a player to watch on the Laval side. Despite his sluggish start to the season stats-wise, he consistently finds ways to secure victories. Another key player to watch is forward Alex Barre-Boulet, who has recorded eight points in his last five games.

On the Bruins’ side, Brandon Bussi stands out as a player to watch. He previously faced this team earlier in the season, and this matchup is a crucial opportunity to get his season back on track. Additionally, Jordan Oesterle is worth noting; he didn’t play against Belleville but is currently second on the team in points.

Lastly, Fabian Lysell has been a hot topic among Bruins fans, although he has yet to make a significant impact in the AHL this season. This trip could be just what he needs to turn his season around and make a push for a call-up. He was unavailable last night against the Rocket due to injury but should be in for the game today.

The Baby B’s will have a break but be thrown into a three-in-three when they play against the Bridgeport Islanders on November 8th. The Bruins aim to take a winning record during their Canadian road trip, but they must perform better than last night to secure the remaining two points. Currently, the P-Bruins sit in 20th place in the league, and they must increase their efforts if they want to make a push for the Calder Cup Playoffs.