The Boston Bruins defeated the San Jose Sharks 3-0 on Thursday night, ending their three-game losing streak. Goalie Jeremy Swayman made 26 saves to keep the team afloat. This was the team’s first loss run in the regular season.

With 12 starts in goal, Swayman has already recorded eight wins this season, including his second shutout of the year. The University of Maine product has excelled in net this year, and has proven to be a solid presence for the Bruins.

The win over the Sharks was a larger win than maybe most realize, however.

Why is Thursday such a big win if the Sharks are likely “tankin for Macklin”?

The fact that Boston’s victory over San Jose was so significant was largely due to the fact that, aside from the New York Rangers loss, all three of their losses had come against teams they should have defeated given their advantage in the standings.

Not only were the Bruins playing down to the level of their competition, but they were also outscored on that stretch by a total of 17-8.

The fact that it now ties the Bruins and Rangers for second place in the NHL and first place in the Eastern Conference with 33 points so far this season is another reason it matters. Both squads trail the Vegas Golden Knights by just one point.

So it’s not only a good win just for them to get back on track, but it’s also one to show that they can still win the easy games against teams that maybe aren’t on the best track this year.

Not only does Boston’s ability to overcome a losing streak and shut out San Jose demonstrate its tenacity and resolve, but it also demonstrates its understanding of what it takes to win a game that is crucial for team morale and to resume winning ways.

What’s next for the Bruins?

The Bruins are back in action on Saturday night when they fly north of the border to take on the Toronto Maple Leafs at the Scotiabank Centre, puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.