2002 Detroit Red Wings vs. 1972 Boston Bruins

Two Stanley Cup winning teams meet in an original six battle for the ages.

What if the 2002 Detroit Red wings met the 1972 Boston Bruins in the playoffs?

Game 1

The Bruins took an early lead with goals from Bobby Orr and Phil Esposito. Detroit fought back with goals from Steve Yzerman and Brett Hull, but the Bruins held on for a 3-2 victory. Wayne Cashman scored the game winner for Boston!

Wayne Cashman of the Boston Bruins gives them a series lead

‘72 Bruins lead 1-0

Game 2

Detroit dominated Game 2, with Brendan Shanahan scoring twice in the first period. Shanahan added two more goals for an exceptional performance, accounting for all four of Detroit’s goals, and the Red Wings never looked back. Dominik Hasek made some incredible saves to secure a 4-2 win.

Shanahan was a scoring machine in Game 2

Series tied 1-1

Game 3

In a closely contested game, the Bruins managed to come out on top. Phil Esposito had a standout performance with two goals and an assist, including the game-winner late in the third period, leading to a 4-3 victory for the Bruins.

Phil Esposito

Bruins lead 2-1

Game 4

The Red Wings and Bruins battled back and forth, with both teams trading goals throughout the game. Igor Larionov scored the game-tying goal for Detroit late in the third period, sending the game into overtime. It was Brendan Shanahan who played the hero, scoring the game-winning goal in overtime to give the Red Wings a 3-2 victory.

“The Professor” ties it up late in the 3rd

Series tied 2-2

Game 5

In a low-scoring and tightly contested game, the Red Wings managed to edge out the Bruins. Steve Yzerman scored the game-winning goal early in the third period, and Dominik Hasek made key saves to secure a 2-1 win for Detroit.

“The Dominator” stands tall in net for Detroit

Red Wings lead 3-2

Game 6

In another closely contested matchup, the Bruins came out on top. Bobby Orr and Phil Esposito led the charge for Boston, with Orr contributing a goal and two assists, while Esposito scored the game-winning goal late in the third period, resulting in a 4-3 victory for the Bruins.

Bobby Orr helps Boston force a Game 7

Series tied 3-3

Game 7

The decisive Game 7 was a nail-biter, with both teams giving it their all. Brendan Shanahan continued to be a key player for the Red Wings, scoring two goals, including the game-winner early in the third period. Dominik Hasek showcased his goaltending prowess, making crucial saves to preserve the lead and secure a 3-2 victory for Detroit.

2002 Detroit Red Wings celebrate their victory

With a series score of 4-3, the Detroit Red Wings emerge as the victors. Brendan Shanahan stood out as the top performer for the Red Wings, leading all scorers in the series. For the Boston Bruins, Bobby Orr and Phil Esposito showcased their skills with 2 goals and 4 assists each.

2002 Detroit Red Wings win in 7