The Boston Bruins have both a storied historical rivalry and a prominent current one. While their most hated rival of all time is undoubtedly the Montreal Canadiens, the team's coach has recently identified the Florida Panthers as their biggest rival right now.
The Storied Rivalry: Montreal Canadiens
For a century, the Bruins have engaged in numerous intense matchups, but none compare to their rivalry with the Montreal Canadiens. This animosity stems from their status as two of the National Hockey League's (NHL) Original Six teams, leading to a long and deeply competitive history.
Key aspects of this historical rivalry include:
- Original Six Roots: Both franchises are foundational members of the NHL, establishing a rivalry built on tradition and numerous significant games.
- Extensive Playoff History: The Canadiens and Bruins have faced each other in the playoffs an astounding 34 times, more than any other two teams in NHL history. These series have produced countless memorable moments, intensifying the rivalry over decades.
- Deep-Seated Animosity: Across their 100-year history, the Canadiens have consistently been considered the Bruins' most hated rival, a sentiment shared by both fan bases.
The Current Rivalry: Florida Panthers
While the historical ties remain, the landscape of rivalries can shift based on recent performance and matchups. According to the Bruins' coach, the Florida Panthers are currently considered the Bruins' biggest rival. This suggests a burgeoning intensity driven by recent playoff series or regular-season matchups that have heightened the competition between the two teams in the present era.
