Bruins close out preseason with a 1-0 loss to Blackhawks

The Boston Bruins concluded the preseason with a 4-3-0 record after a 1-0 loss to the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday at United Center. The Bruins open the 2017-18 season against the Nashville Predators on Thursday at TD Garden.

Here are three observations: 

I've said it all along, and people shake their heads when I say that Anton Khudobin is one of the most important players for this team. The backup role is so crucial and he needs to be able to play 25 to 27 games this season and be well above .500. It comes down to this: Tuukka Rask should not have to play more than 60 games. If Khudobin is not up for the task, then the Bruins need to figure something out sooner than later. Fortunately for the team, he's showing signs of being dialed in and accepting of his role. He made 35 saves against the Blackhawks and appeared to be sharp. It's a good way to end the postseason and it should give him confidence heading into the season.

After the game, Bruce Cassidy told reporters: "Two solid efforts [by Khudobin] in the preseason. That bodes well for our season."

The varsity was given the night off and for good reason. That meant the players fighting for spots were given another opportunity to show what they could do. Since Torey Krug is sidelined with a broken jaw, there's one spot open on the blue line. Matt Grzelcyk was given another look and Cassidy was impressed with his game.

"I really noticed Grizz tonight and that’s the type of game he needs to play, where he’s involved with the puck," the coach told reporters.

With Krug out, the final spot comes down to Grzelcyk, Paul Postma and Rob O'Gara.

There are a few spots available on the offensive side, too, and Jake DeBrusk could be in line to make the roster. The majority of training camp he's been on the line with David Krejci and David Pastrnak, but the last two preseason games he's been mixed in on other lines. He logged 12:44 of ice time and worked the power play too. There are areas of his game that he needs to focus on, which includes the defensive end, but it's likely he'll be on the final roster.