One year without playoff hockey served as ‘a big motivation’ for the Bruins The Boston Bruins’ return to the postseason after a 12-month absence has been framed by players as a pivotal moment of growth and renewed purpose. The team’s resurgence, marked by the playoff-bound performances of goaltender Jeremy Swayman and defenseman Nikita Zadorov, has been fueled by the collective frustration of last season’s playoff drought. For many Bruins, the 2024-25 campaign was a chance to reclaim the competitive edge that had been missing since their last postseason run. Swayman, who will start Game 1 of the Bruins’ first-round series against the Buffalo Sabres, emphasized the emotional weight of the wait. “It’s a big motivation. You go through summer without it and you really don’t appreciate it until you don’t have it,” he said. “That’s why we play hockey is to play playoffs, especially for the city of Boston. It’s unmatched to any other city and we’re really excited.” His comments reflect the broader sentiment among players and fans, who have long associated Boston’s hockey culture with postseason success. Zadorov, a key contributor to the Bruins’ playoff push, echoed this sentiment. The defenseman, who joined the team prior to the 2024-25 season, cited the team’s consistent playoff presence as a major factor in his decision to sign with Boston. “That was the goal coming in here, play those meaningful games,” he said. “I mean, we’re not done yet. Obviously, it’s an exciting time right now for sure.” His remarks underscored the team’s focus on maintaining momentum as they prepare for the playoffs. The Bruins’ return to the postseason also carries personal significance for Zadorov, who will face the Sabres in Buffalo—a team that originally drafted him in 2013.#boston_brains #buffalo_sabres #marco_sturm #jeremy_swayman #nikita_zadorov
