By Matt Dolloff, 985TheSportsHub.com
The Bruins’ 10-day break between games could adversely affect them at the start of the Stanley Cup Final. But the St. Louis Blues are getting a five-day layoff themselves. So how much of an advantage will they really have?
It wouldn’t be surprising to see the Bruins show some rust early in the Cup Final when Game 1 takes place next Monday night at TD Garden. But with the Blues also getting a longer-than-usual break, Cassidy told Toucher & Rich in his interview Wednesday morning that he expects a slow start on both sides before they get their legs under them.
“[The Blues] won last night so they got six days too,” Cassidy said. “I think both teams are going to have a level of rust, but I think they’ll shake it off pretty quickly.”
Head coach Bruce Cassidy of the Boston Bruins handles the morning skate prior to Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Final during the 2019 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at the PNC Bank Arena on May 14, 2019 in Raleigh, North Carolina. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
What kind of rust? Cassidy is expecting the Bruins and Blues to disrupt each other before either of them can work it off, but he also expects both teams to get back to their usual high levels in due time. In fact he feels the adversity could kick both teams into gear.
“[The Blues] have enough leadership over there that eventually you’re gonna find it, and usually sooner rather than later,” Cassidy said. “It’s like us. I really don’t believe it’s going to take us long. We’re going to lose a few puck battles early because you’re not used to battling, and you’re gonna get knocked on your ass and all of a sudden you’re back into it.”
Ultimately, the coach is OK with the break. After six- and seven-game series, he’ll take a little early rust in the Cup Final if it means a quick, easy series and some time to recharge.
“The rest is good for us, I do believe that,” Cassidy said. “I really think this time of year, guys getting a little time off is fine, and we’ll be ready to go on Monday.”
Listen to Toucher & Rich weekdays from 6-10 a.m. on 98.5 The Sports Hub. Click here for all content from the show.
Matt Dolloff is a digital producer for 985TheSportsHub.com. Any opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of 98.5 The Sports Hub, Beasley Media Group, or any subsidiaries. Have a news tip, question, or comment for Matt? Follow him on Twitter @mattdolloff or email him at matthew.dolloff@bbgi.com.