Bruins Notes: How Justin Brazeau Reacted After Scoring In NHL Debut…

BOSTON — Justin Brazeau found it difficult to recall what many would assume is an unforgettable moment. “I kind of lost track, to be honest,” the Boston Bruins forward admitted when asked about netting his first NHL goal in his debut game, a thrilling 4-3 shootout triumph against the Dallas Stars at TD Garden on Monday afternoon.

“(Anthony Richard) asked me where the puck went, and I had no clue. I just took the shot and heard the crowd erupt,” Brazeau recounted. “It’s definitely a great feeling.”

The 26-year-old Brazeau had just inked a two-year, two-way contract with Boston on Sunday. Less than a day later, without even a single practice with the team, he found himself in action, starting his debut game. Reflecting on his journey after achieving this career milestone, Brazeau acknowledged the challenges he faced. “It’s been tough,” he admitted. “I’ve been grinding for a long time in pro hockey to get here. But finally, it all came together, and it feels pretty amazing.”

With his parents flying in on Monday morning and his sister arriving over the weekend, Brazeau cherished the opportunity to play at TD Garden. He was grateful for the warm reception from Bruins fans, both during the starting lineup announcement and after his goal leveled the game at 2-2, less than half a minute after the Stars took the lead.

“That was probably the largest crowd I’ve ever played in front of, and it was a lot of fun,” Brazeau remarked. “It’s a surreal feeling. I’ve been working hard for this moment for a long time, so to see it happen feels really special.”

Bruins head coach Jim Montgomery and several players expressed their excitement for Brazeau, praising his puck-possession skills and strong presence on the ice. Brazeau’s performance, including tying Brad Marchand for the team lead in shots on goal, impressed many.

“I absolutely love it. What an incredible story,” Montgomery said before the game. “Starting out on an East Coast two-way deal, fighting his way up to earning an AHL deal, and now making his way to the NHL… It’s truly remarkable.”

After the game, Bruins goaltender Jeremey Swayman echoed the sentiment, saying, “He’s phenomenal. Everywhere he’s played, he’s found success. We’re all thrilled for him to come in and make such a significant impact.”

With Brazeau joining the lineup, the Bruins’ fourth line, featuring Jesper Boqvist at center with Richard and Brazeau on the wings, delivered an outstanding performance. Both Brazeau and Boqvist found the back of the net and contributed to a plus-2 rating.

“It was great to play alongside (Boqvist) and Rich from the get-go,” Brazeau said. “Having spent time down in Providence, it definitely helped coming into the locker room feeling comfortable.”

Swayman’s stellar goaltending in overtime and the shootout sealed the victory for Boston, with a career-high 43 saves on 46 shots and crucial stops during the shootout.

“These are the moments you live for. It’s why I play,” Swayman declared. “It’s a game I’ll remember for a long time. Winning like this at home, especially after the rough patch we’ve had, is incredibly special.”

As for the team’s future, Boston, after a mixed homestand, now hits the road for four consecutive games, beginning with a clash against Edmonton on Wednesday, the first of three matchups in Canada.