BSJ Game Report: Bruins 3, Devils 2 (SO) - Anton Khudobin stellar, deserves another start

The Bruins surrendered a two-goal lead but Anton Khudobin was outstanding once again. In his third consecutive start, Khudobin made 40 saves through overtime en route to victory. He was incredible in the shootout, which led to Charlie McAvoy's game-winner in the 11th round.

https://twitter.com/NHLBruins/status/933537940428546048

The Bruins were worried about their backup goalie situation during the offseason. Well, Khudobin has answered the challenge and has turned in huge performances at a time when the Bruins needed it. In nine games (eight starts), he's 6-0-2 with a 2.12 goals-against average and a .938 save percentage.

It's going to be an interesting decision for coach Bruce Cassidy whether or not to stick with Khudobin on Friday against the Pittsburgh Penguins. At this point, you have to stick with the hot hand.

Prior to tonight's game, I said no matter the result against the Devils, Tuukka Rask would start against the Penguins on Friday. It's been over a week since he's played and the last thing the Bruins need is for their No. 1 goalie to be on the bench for long period of time. Had the Bruins beat the Devils in regulation, or even in OT, Rask would have started on Friday. But since Khudobin was outstanding in the shootout, he should get one more start before going back with Rask. You could see how the Bruins players were pumped after every save Khudobin made in the shootout. You shouldn't mess with that type of energy.

Here's the rest of what you need to know from the Bruins' win over the Devils Wednesday night at Prudential Center in New Jersey. 

TWO UP



Jake DeBrusk: While Khudobin gets all the attention, the rookie forward continues to play extremely well since he was a healthy scratch on Nov. 11. He has four points (two goal and two assists) in the last four games, including a terrific goal at 1:25 of the first period. He's playing a complete 200-foot game. On more than one occasion, he broke up a potential scoring chance in the defensive end.

https://twitter.com/NHLBruins/status/933500865582895104

Danton Heinen: Other than Khudobin, Heinen was the Bruins' best player. He finished with an assist, but his ability to win puck battles and help Boston posses the puck has been crucial in the team's recent three-game winning streak. He's earned his spot in the top six.

ONE DOWN

Rob O'Gara: His miscue on the penalty kill allowed the Devils to tie the game at 2-2 at 15:16 of the third period. The Bruins won the faceoff in the defensive zone and O'Gara had plenty of time with the puck behind the net, but instead, he wrapped it around the boards and the Devils easily kept it in and it resulted in the game-tying goal. O'Gara needs to make better decisions with the puck.

TURNING POINT

Dobby again: Khudobin's prowess in the shootout gave the Bruins the two points. He stopped 11 Devil shooters before McAvoy's game-winner.

https://twitter.com/NHLBruins/status/933540770945961984

UP NEXT

The Bruins will hold the annual Black Friday game when they host the reigning Stanley Cup champion Pittsburgh Penguins at 1 p.m. at TD Garden. Who will be in net for the Bruins?

https://twitter.com/NHLBruins/status/933501552257576960