Articles / Old rivals Bruins, Canadiens drop gloves at opening faceoff, again later in first

Old rivals Bruins, Canadiens drop gloves at opening faceoff, again later in first

S
Sportsnet
Dec 23, 2025 8:28 PM

Summary: This is a summary of an article originally published by Sportsnet. Read the full original article here →

In a thrilling matchup that rekindled old rivalries, the Boston Bruins faced off against the Montreal Canadiens, quickly setting the tone for an intense game right from the opening faceoff. Players dropped the gloves almost immediately, showcasing the fierce competitive nature that these two storied franchises are known for. Fans were on their feet as both teams exchanged blows, with Bruins' captain Brad Marchand and Canadiens' defenseman Joel Edmundson leading the charge, reminding everyone of the rich history between these clubs.

As the first period unfolded, emotions ran high, and the physicality only escalated. The Bruins, known for their tough style of play, were determined to assert their dominance early in the contest. Marchand’s leadership was evident as he rallied his teammates while also engaging in spirited exchanges with the Canadiens, prompting both teams to dig deep into their playbooks and leverage their physical prowess.

The atmosphere in the arena was electric, reminiscent of playoff hockey, with every hit and score drawing roars from the devoted fanbase. The presence of long-time adversaries on the ice like Boston’s David Pastrnak and Montreal’s Nick Suzuki added an extra layer of intrigue, as both squads fought not just for points but for pride. By the end of the first period, it was clear that this matchup would be remembered as another chapter in their storied rivalry, full of passion, aggression, and hockey at its finest.

As the game progressed, players continued to push boundaries, ensuring that every moment counted. The Bruins and Canadiens have always symbolized the essence of hockey, bringing out the best— and sometimes the worst— in each other, and this encounter was no different. Fans looked forward to an exhilarating showdown, echoing the timeless competition that keeps their love for the game alive and thriving.