Boston Bruins forward David Pastrnak found himself in an unusual position during Sunday’s 2-0 win over the Seattle Kraken-benched in the third period.
Pastrnak, who notched seven shots in just over 14 minutes of ice time, seemingly kept his energy high from the bench, showing no signs of frustration.
The Bruins players, strongly supported and kept above water by Pastrnak’s 11 points so far this season, appreciated his attitude as a positive example for the team following the victory and his in-game scratching.
Despite getting benched during a win, Pastrnak’s response impressed his teammates according to linemate Charlie Coyle.
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Coyle shared how the star forward reacted to the benching when addressing media members after the game on Sunday and touched on the situation.
“Pasta wasn’t silent, though,” Coyle told reporters. “He was bringing energy. He was talking; he was into it.
“That’s a sign of a good teammate right there. That’s why he wears a letter; that’s why he’s one of our captains, our leaders.”
Though specifics about the benching decision are unknown for now, with head coach Jim Montgomery bluntly saying it was a “coach’s decision,” Coyle emphasized that Pastrnak’s reaction demonstrated maturity and leadership.
“I don’t know the full extent of what was going on,” Coyle said. “Whatever the coach says and whatever his decisions are, you just got to go play.”
It’s fair to assume Montgomery was trying to send a message with the decision, trying to call for some accountability within the team by benching one of the best players on the roster.
The Bruins took an early lead through Justin Brazeau and extended it with Coyle’s power-play goal, sealing the victory against the Kraken.
Boston also limited Seattle to 10 shots through two periods while goalie Jeremy Swayman recorded his first shutout of the season.
The victory allowed the Bruins to even their record with six wins against six losses in regulation and one overtime loss, making it 6-6-1 through 13 games and earning them fourth place in the Atlantic Division.
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