6 Reasons Boston is coming back in the series

1: Nathan Horton Inspiration
When Nathan Horton hit the ice early in game 3, Boston almost changed their play and intensity immediately. They were more puck hungry and attacked the Canucks defense relentlessly with an impressive forecheck. This resulted in them scoring 12 goals in 2 games. Their attack hasn't let up one bit since the hit and if they can continue this play into Vancouver, this series will be over in 2 games. This was an emotional moment before game 4 the other night. The very beginning of this next video, legendary Bobby Orr was swinging a flag with Horton and his number on it for the fans.

And that brings me to number 2...

2: Home sweet home

Home ice advantage is a unique advantage in sports. The benefits aren't necessarily physically present but it does play a role in the teams' performance. People counted Boston out after their 2 emotionally draining losses in Vancouver. But all it took was a trip home and now they seem unstoppable. Their loud fans are always cheering for them and it adds to the excitement of the game to the players and to the fans watching at home. As a goalie, I know the benefits of playing on home ice. It's an added feeling of strength and determination. Don't believe me? Just ask this guy...

3: Tim Thomas

Thomas is an unorthodox goalie. In his style AND in his mindset. Because of his style he gave up this goal in game 2. He faced a ton of criticism for it but I backed him up. That's the way he plays and it often works out well for him. But then what he's done the next 2 games has impressed me the most. He has given up on 1 goal in the last 2 games on 79 shots. He came out and performed on an extremely impressive level while being publicly criticized for his style of play. Not only that, but his aggressive style of play has continued during these 2 games. Don't believe me? Just ask Henrik Sedin and Alex Burrows...

But Thomas has to be careful about his continuous checking spree. Because we all know what might happen..

4: Roberto Luongo

After his weak first round, Luongo turned things around with two solid series against Nashville and San Jose' respectively and opened up to a good start this series as well. But then the Bruins started to score. And score. And score. During the 8-1 loss though, while it was 5-1 in the third with about 7 minutes left, Vancouver coach Alain Vigneault asked Luongo if he wanted to leave the game but Luongo refused. Then he gave up 3 goals in the last 3 minutes. He played most of the game again in game 4 but was pulled with 15 minutes to go in the third in favor of Corey Schneider after Luongo gave up 4 goals on 20 shots. But Vigneault said he was going to start Luongo again tonight in game 5. This shows that the coach has faith in his goalie which is a good sign. But Luongo has to prove he's worthy of the faith now. 12 goals in 2 games won't cut it.

5: Vancouver's magic trick

And all of a sudden, Vancouver's offense disappears! Both Sedins, Kesler, and pretty much everyone else hasn't done anything in the Stanley Cup Finals round and that's not a good sign for a team that is this good. In the last 2 games, captain Henrik Sedin only has 2 shots on net. His brother Daniel only has 4 shots in the last 2 games. And Kesler only has 7. These are guys who have to step up for Vancouver this round. Your stars have to set the tempo but it appears their third and fourth line have been doing that for them. Burrows has played well as has Raffi Torres. 

6: Missing Defense

Vancouver completes the tri-fecta. All three positions have slumped for them the past 2 games. After Rome was suspended because of his hit, Keith Ballard moved up into his position. This wouldn't have been a problem if Ballard, who hasn't played since May 24th, played well. But he didn't play well. Therefore, it was a problem. Furthermore, guys like Sami Salo also performed under par and therefore, the defense also deserves some criticism for their 12 goals given up in 2 games.

One last video from my good friends OttawaGh0st4.