The Boston Bruins suffered their first loss of the 2025-2026 season on Monday, October 13th, falling 4-3 to the Tampa Bay Lightning in a matinee matchup at TD Garden. After a strong start to the season with three consecutive wins, the Bruins couldn't overcome an early deficit against a determined Lightning team seeking to snap their own losing streak. Here are three key takeaways from the game:
Early Miscues Prove Costly
The Bruins dug themselves into an early hole with turnovers and defensive zone miscues that the Lightning readily capitalized on. Tampa Bay scored three goals in the first period and extended their lead early in the second, putting Boston down 4-1. According to reports, the Lightning's first goal came just 1:09 into the game when Anthony Cirelli tipped in Jake Guentzel's shot. Cirelli then scored again at 13:16 of the first, increasing the Lightning's lead to 2-0. Yanni Gourde added another goal early in the second period. While the Bruins mounted a comeback, these early errors ultimately proved too much to overcome. Cleaning up defensive zone coverage and limiting turnovers will be a point of emphasis moving forward.
Depth Contributions Emerge
Despite the loss, there were encouraging signs for the Bruins in terms of offensive contributions from their depth players. Jordan Harris, a native of Haverhill, MA, and former Northeastern Husky, scored his first goal as a Bruin. His goal, assisted by David Pastrnak, cut Tampa's lead to 4-2. Casey Mittelstadt and Morgan Geekie also found the back of the net. Mittelstadt scored Boston's first goal. Geekie's goal brought the Bruins within one goal of the Lightning. These contributions from players beyond the top line are a positive development for a Bruins team aiming for more balanced scoring this season.
Power Play Struggles and Faceoff Woes
The Bruins' power play was unable to convert on five opportunities. Special teams can often be a difference-maker in close games, and Boston's inability to capitalize with the man advantage hurt their chances of completing the comeback. In addition, the Bruins struggled significantly in the faceoff circle. Through the first two periods, they only won 21% of their faceoffs. The Lightning's dominance in the faceoff dot contributed to their ability to control the puck and maintain pressure, particularly in the defensive zone.
Looking ahead, the Lightning will visit the Washington Capitals on Tuesday. The Bruins will travel to face the Vegas Golden Knights on Thursday.
