Boston Bruins players addressed the media Tuesday, a day before they are scheduled to take the ice for Game 7 against the St. Louis Blues.
Game 7 is scheduled for Wednesday night at the TD Garden. It's the first time in franchise history that Boston has hosted Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final.
Goaltender Tuukka Rask said he's excited to play in front of the home fans on Wednesday night.
"You fight for that home ice all year, and then if it comes to a Game 7 in the finals you hope it pays dividends," he said. "So that's what we're shooting for. We're trying to really get energy from the fans and for them to help us out."
Head Coach Bruce Cassidy echoed Rask's comments, even though both teams have won more games on the road than at home in the Stanley Cup Final.
"I think both teams are good road teams. Game 7, I do believe if you're going to have home ice advantage, that is the game you'd want," he said. "After that it's two good hockey teams. I think they both play good team defense and a certain style that lends itself to being successful on the road. We're glad to have home ice this game."
Rask and Brad Marchand also talked about how special it is to play in Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Final.
"I think that's every kid's dream who plays pond hockey," Rask said. "You imagine it's a Game 7."
"I think every hockey player could say that at one point in their life, they've dreamed of being in a position like this," added Marchand. "It's much different when you're going through it and realize how exciting and hard it is, so much more appreciation. It's a very special opportunity regardless of how it plays out tomorrow. It's been a special adventure with this group and hopefully it ends on a good note."
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Zdeno Chara said he looks forward to hearing from the fans in Game 7, especially after the rowdy reception he received in Game 5 after returning from injury.
"I didn't expect it. I was overwhelmed by the response of the crowd. It's very humbling and I'm so honored. It just shows how passionate the Boston fans are. Very much appreciated and we are so thankful they are so behind us and cheering us on."
