In Boston’s stunning Game 7 victory over the Toronto Maple Leafs at TD Garden, defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk had only 10:29 of ice time, the fewest among the defense corps.
However, Shattenkirk’s most significant contribution may have occurred before the puck was dropped Saturday night.
With the Bruins making the odd decision to stay in a hotel the night before the home game, Shattenkirk made a well-timed message that resonated with his teammates and helped them prepare for the high-pressure, winner-take-all situation.
“We were together (Friday) night, it’s not a secret,” Marchand told reporters after Boston’s 2-1 overtime victory, according to Eric Russo of Bruins.com. “We watched a film, we convened as a group, and (Shattenkirk) made an excellent speech that really helped us to settle down and grasp where we were, how we needed to play, and what we needed to believe to get the job done.
“When we woke up (Saturday) morning, you could see that everyone was going to bring their best game and execute their job, so there was a sense of confidence across the squad. You could see it on the boys’ faces, and no one appeared to be nervous.”
Marchand was not the only one who saw the value of Shattenkirk’s statements. Maroon also praised Shattenkirk and the influence his words had on the Bruins.
“I think (Shattenkirk) did an amazing job,” Maroon told reporters on Saturday, according to Russo. “There’s a reason he’s won before: his leadership and voice are powerful. He emphasized the need of believing in yourself, your teammates, and the group to avoid regrets after the game. He performed an excellent job, and it impacted many people. His leadership has a significant impact. That’s why he’s been in the league for so long.
