from Fluto Shinzawa of the Boston Globe,

- The biggest problem that’s bothered the Bruins on defense all season is their inability to protect the house consistently. Their coaches repeatedly stress the importance of stationing at least one man in front of the net to disrupt shots, block pucks, and lift sticks. If the Bruins occupy the net-front area correctly, it leaves others to work their way out from there and cover the rest of the defensive zone. It’s been easier said than done. The Bruins have been too quick to leave the space open to hunt down loose pucks or close on opponents. “The front of the net is the main area,” Adam McQuaid said. “That’s something that’s a team thing. It’s five guys coming back and getting in the right positions, then working from there.”

- Chatter around the league pegs New Jersey as a franchise that could seek a new general manager. Lou Lamoriello is in his 28th season at the Devils’ helm. They have good young pieces in Cory Schneider and Adam Henrique. But too much of the roster has gone gray.

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