By: Kenny Kaminsky | Follow me on Twitter/X @KennyKaminsky
After a tough loss to the Laval Rocket last night, the Providence Bruins faced a quick turnaround with a rematch against the Rocket earlier today. Following two strong performances by goaltender Michael DiPietro, it was Brandon Bussi’s turn to take the net for the Baby Bs. Bussi aimed to secure his first win of the AHL season, having previously posted a 0-3 record with career-low statistics. Unfortunately, the Bruins lost to the Rocket by a final score of 6-3. As the Thanksgiving break approaches, Bussi must find ways to win games, as he currently ranks among the bottom five goalies in the American Hockey League this season.
The Bruins started strong again, with Patrick Brown winning a crucial faceoff, which led to a shot from Frederic Brunet. The puck was deflected by Riley Tufte, giving them an early 1-0 lead. However, despite the quick momentum from the Providence Bruins, the Montreal Canadiens affiliate scored a fortunate goal later in the period as the puck ricocheted off a Providence defender, tying the game at 1-1. Throughout the early part of the game, the Baby B’s maintained the pace of play, but Brandon Bussi still had to make some outstanding saves to keep the score level.
The second period began to unravel for the Bruins when their kryptonite, Logan Mailloux, scored again, giving the Rocket a 2-1 lead. However, that lead was short-lived as veteran Tyler Pitlick of Providence fought to the front of the net and managed to sneak a backhand shot past Laval’s goaltender, Connor Hughes. After the Bruins’ goal, the game shifted in favor of the Rocket, as Joshua Roy scored two goals, increasing their lead to 4-2.
The third period was mostly Providence, but unfortunately, they could not finish the comeback. They played with minimal urgency. It felt like the hope was sucked out of the bench, and instead of trying to beat the Rocket on the scoreboard, the Bruins wanted to beat them with their fists, as every stoppage was met with someone tossing their gloves off.
Vinni Lettieri would snipe one under the arm of the Rocket netminder to bring the game within one, but shortly after, Laval should put the dagger in the heart of the Bruins with an excellent passing play that ended with a shot behind Bussi. Joshua Roy would complete the hat trick with an empty netter.
Once again, top Bruins prospect Fabian Lysell was out of the lineup due to injury, which was noticeable in the team’s performance. Despite his slow start to the season, the energy he brings is evident. Logan Mailloux again dominated the Bruins, contributing seven points across their three matchups this season. A recurring issue is that the Laval defense consistently overwhelms the Bruins offensively, often scoring most of the game’s goals. Joshua Roy scored a few goals with shots that aimed right through traffic, leaving goalie Bussi unable to see them.
Once again, Providence’s special teams cost them a game. Their league-worst power play went 0 for 4, and the penalty kill allowed another goal. Additionally, they surrendered a short-handed goal, which severely impacted their performance. Not only are they failing to capitalize on these opportunities, but they are also conceding goals in the process. The power play scores only 5.7% of the time, which is unacceptable and needs to be addressed by Head Coach Ryan Mougenel.
Another notable event in this game was Assistant Captain Billy Sweezey’s departure. He left after suffering a dirty hit in the final two minutes. We hope he is okay and await updates on how long he will be sidelined.
The Providence Bruins will take a few days off as they return to New England to prepare for a challenging three-game weekend. Their first match is against the Bridgeport Islanders, who currently hold a record of 2-5-1. The Islanders are feeling good after a hard-fought shootout loss to the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins last Wednesday, followed by a convincing 4-1 victory over their rivals, the Springfield Thunderbirds, last night. Be sure to catch the game on November 8th at the Amica Mutual Pavilion, where the Bruins aim to get their season back on track.
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