from Chris Johnston of Sportsnet,

... the much bigger focus was getting back to the style of play that has seen this organization reach the Stanley Cup Final two of the last three seasons. More physical, more focused. There was every reason to expect it to happen.

“Keeping things simple (is important) in life, guys,” said Julien. “Last time I looked I think it was 2-1 in the series and there’s hockey to be played here. We’re not overconfident, we’re just saying we’re in a good series here – we’re in a big series – and we do things our way that we feel is right for our team.”

There has been a much different mood around the Habs this spring. They are unburdened; a team without too many expectations, at least as few as you can have while playing in Montreal. And they have played great while compiling a 6-1 record and seldom even trailing in a game.

For them, Game 4 offers an important opportunity. They could put the Bruins on the ropes.

“I’m convinced one of their goals was to win a game at the Bell Centre,” Habs coach Michel Therrien said Thursday morning. “So the game tonight is important for them, but for us as well. We want to continue on our roll.

more