Bruins to ask Patriots about big-game preparation

The Boston Bruins are in the midst of 10 days off before Game 1 of the Stanley Cup Final following their sweep of the Carolina Hurricanes in the Eastern Conference finals. And with the long layoff, they're turning to some local experts for tips on how to stay focused.

The New England Patriots.

According to NHL.com, the organization will contact the Patriots to seek advice about blending preparation and time off. After all, the Patriots have experienced some two-week breaks before the Super Bowl, which they've won six times.

"There's crossovers that we've all identified that we're going to tap into," general manager Don Sweeney said. "There's a local team I think that's had time (before) they're going to Super Bowls, so we are going to look at different resources that have done it and done it well."

Even though the layoff presents challenges, Sweeney seems grateful for it, especially given the tough series the Bruins played before the Eastern Conference finals.

"I think in the short term, it's really beneficial for our group," Sweeney said.

"The players themselves (after) a seven-game series, six-game series, (we were) fortunate to be able to close out quickly against Carolina, but we've been pedal to the metal here mentally and physically for a while. I do believe in the short term, it will help us a lot."

--Field Level Media