The Boston Bruins and the Toronto Maple Leafs have a storied rivalry, and their recent Game 7 in the first round of the 2024 NHL playoffs only added another chapter to that epic saga. The Bruins clinched the series with a 2-1 victory in overtime, sending them to the second round to face the Florida Panthers.

The game was a nail-biter from start to finish. Both teams fought tooth and nail, but it was David Pastrnak who scored the game-winning goal 1:54 into overtime, assisted by Hampus Lindholm. This clutch play came after Pastrnak was challenged by Bruins coach Jim Montgomery to step up his performance, and he did just that.

Jeremy Swayman was another standout player for the Bruins, making 30 saves and playing a crucial role in keeping the game close. His performance was especially notable in the last seconds of regulation, when he made a game-saving stop on a deflected pass in the slot.

The Maple Leafs put up a strong fight, with William Nylander scoring their only goal and Auston Matthews making an assist in his return from a two-game absence. However, they couldn't overcome the Bruins' resilience and the challenge of playing in Boston, where they have now lost six consecutive Game 7s.

This victory for the Bruins was not only about advancing in the playoffs but also about redemption. They avoided becoming the first team in NHL, NBA, and MLB history to blow 3-1 series leads in consecutive seasons. This win also marked their first series win since their record-breaking season in 2022-23, where they set the NHL records for the most wins and points in a season but were upset in the first round by the Panthers.

The Bruins will now face the Panthers in the second round, a rematch from last year's playoffs. This series promises to be another exciting matchup, with the Bruins looking to avenge last year's loss and continue their quest for the Stanley Cup.

The Bruins' victory was a testament to their determination and resilience, and they will look to carry that momentum into the next round against the Panthers.