The Boston Bruins secured a 5-4 overtime victory against the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday afternoon at TD Garden, ending a recent skid with a dramatic finish. Elias Lindholm scored the game-winning goal in the extra period, capitalizing on a pass from Charlie McAvoy during a three-on-three situation. Lindholm’s goal came as he shook free from Blackhawks defender Oliver Moore before converting from close range.
David Pastrnak played a pivotal role in the Bruins’ comeback, scoring his eighth goal of the season and reaching a major milestone in franchise history. His goal, a precise forehand shot beneath the crossbar against goalie Arvid Soderblom, marked his 428th career goal with Boston. This achievement places Pastrnak third on the Bruins’ all-time goal-scoring list, surpassing retired captain Patrice Bergeron, who tallied 427 goals during his tenure with the team. Pastrnak acknowledged the significance of this milestone and expressed respect for Bergeron, who will be inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame on November 9. Pastrnak is currently on pace to challenge second-place Phil Esposito’s record of 459 goals.
Lindholm, skating on Boston’s third line alongside Casey Mittelstadt and rookie James Hagens, has seen a surge in offensive production this season. With 5 goals and 7 assists for 12 points, he is on pace for 67 points—his highest since an 82-point campaign with Calgary in 2021-22. His strong performance included winning 17 of 24 faceoffs during the game, contributing to the Bruins’ dominant 69 percent faceoff win rate against Chicago. Teammate Morgan Geekie praised Lindholm’s consistency and two-way play, noting his vital contributions beyond scoring.
The Blackhawks, who struggled offensively throughout the season with only 27 goals in 13 games—one of the lowest totals in the NHL—were led by captain Connor Bedard centering the top line. Former Bruins forward Ryan Donato, now in his fourth season with Chicago, recorded an assist during the contest, raising his season totals to two goals and four points. The Blackhawks started backup goalie Arvid Soderblom, with starter Spencer Knight, also a former Boston College standout, sitting out the game.
Following the win, the Bruins called off their scheduled Sunday practice in Brighton and are set to resume preparations on Monday ahead of their upcoming matchup against the Vegas Golden Knights.
