Moog Sharp in Goal, Bourque Back on Ice as Bruins Eliminate Whalers

BOSTON — Sparked by the surprising return of Ray Bourque and the goaltending of Andy Moog, the Boston Bruins advanced to the second round of the NHL playoffs with a 3-1, seventh-game victory over the Hartford Whalers Tuesday night.

Bourque, who was expected to miss his fifth consecutive game with a left hip bruise, had one assist and was on the ice for all three Boston goals. Moog stopped 27 shots.

The Bruins open the best-of-seven Adams Division final at home Thursday night against Montreal. Boston avoided becoming the first team since the 1970-71 Bruins to lose in the opening round after compiling the best regular-season record.

Boston led, 2-0, after one period on goals by John Byce, in his second NHL game, and Craig Janney. Cam Neely made it 3-0 at 15:22 of the second period on a give-and-go play with Janney.