Actually, the success of those teams was credited for the explosion of youth hockey and the proliferation of ice rinks in the New England area. That was how influential Bobby Orr and the Big Bad Bruins had become! Most hockey pundits of that time credit Bobby Orr and those powerful Bruin’s teams with significantly aiding the successful expansion of the league. Many of the new teams would sell out when the Bruins came to town. The Bruins appearance ignited hockey fever in such places as Los Angeles, Atlanta, and even Oakland.

However, those sterling teams faded away, and the Bruins lost their “mojo” if you will. They plunged into almost four decades of malaise. Sure, they put together some decent teams during that time, but they never succeeded in capturing the hearts and spirit of New England like those squads in the early 70’s. Almost 40 years between league championships is a very long time. Well, last night, after dominating the Vancouver Canucks 4-0 in game seven on their opponents’ home ice, the frustration, angst, head pounding,vitriol, all melted away. This improbable bunch of guys, DID IT!.. They brought the Stanley Cup back to the city that embraced them so many years ago. They have rekindled a flame that for so long lie dormant among the Bruin faithful. What is even better, they did it with a bunch of non-superstar guys, improbable heroes, like rookie Brad Marchant, and well traveled veterans like Mark Recchi. No Bobby Orrs or Phil Espositos among them. Just a collection of hard working, tough, grind-it-out players who proved that focus and determination will accomplish your goal. So Congrats, guys,a and thanks for the new memories. I just hope it won’t be another 40 years!