Updated

The Boston Bruins have held the Detroit Red Wings to historically poor production offensively.

With just two goals through three games, Detroit is off to its worst three-game start in any playoff series since the 1945 Stanley Cup finals.

Boston goaltender Tuukka Rask, backchecking forwards and shot-blocking defensemen have had a lot to do with that.

The Bruins have turned defense into offense to win the last two games by a combined score of 7-1. The dominating performances have lifted the defending Eastern Conference champions to a 2-1 lead in the opening-round series.

Detroit has to win Game 4 at home Thursday night to avoid facing elimination when the series shifts to Boston for Game 5.