Veteran forward James van Riemsdyk is off to a strong start, playing alongside Charlie Coyle and Trent Frederic.

Matt Poitras has top-six potential and if he can approach that potential this year, the team gets a lift.

Vegas, which already has the best start for a reigning champ with seven consecutive victories, is the closest to tying the record for the longest winning streak to start a season: 10 by the 1993-94 Toronto Maple Leafs and 2006-07 Buffalo Sabres.

Matthew Poitras and Trent Frederic score 56 seconds apart in the third period for the Bruins, who match the best start in franchise history.

Rookie Matthew Poitras, 19, gets the tying and go-ahead goals in the third period as Boston improves to 5-0.

Brad Marchand and James van Riemsdyk scored 21 seconds apart late in the first period, and the Boston Bruins won their third straight game to open the season, beating the San Jose Sharks 3-1.

The Bruins have nine games to either keep Matt Poitras or return him to the Ontario Hockey League.

David Pastrnak adds a goal on a penalty shot and Jeremy Swayman makes 34 saves as Boston holds on for a 3-2 win.

Goalie Linus Ullmark makes 20 saves as the Bruins win their season opener.