Three Takeaways: Fleet Fall in Sold-Out TD Garden Game

On Saturday, April 11, 2026, the Boston Fleet hosted the Montreal Victoire at TD Garden for a sold-out game. Making history at the iconic Boston sports venue was monumental for the Fleet the PWHL at large.

While the game did not set any attendance records, it was still a big moment for everyone involved, and brought a lot of emotions for players on both sides. Here are the three biggest takeaways from the sold-out game at TD Garden on Saturday night:

1. The Boston Fleet are a front-runner for the Walter Cup if they improve their special teams.

Coach Kris Sparre said he would like to see the team create more chances with special teams, especially when “playing a tight-checking team like Montreal.” The Fleet ultimately only had 20 shots total in the game. Montreal took six penalties and Boston had four power play opportunities, none of which were converted.

2. The playoffs might come down to goaltending.

It is no secret that the PWHL employs some of the best goaltendders in the world, but the game on Saturday—featuring Ann-Renee Desbiens and Aerin Frankel—made it abundantly clear that figuring out how to beat the goaltender will be the key to the playoffs. Obviously the goal of hockey is to score goals, but knowing how to deke, fake-out, and navigate a world-class goaltender is different than getting puck luck. Both women have the utmost respect for the other. If the PWHL finals come down to the Fleet and the Victoire, I wouldn’t expect to see high-scoring games.

3. Rivalries make sports better.

While the NHL has a long history of the Montreal and Boston rivalry, as does a certain book we love, the PWHL teams didn’t immediately show signs of hatred. However, as we’ve had more time in the league and these teams have continued to face each other in high pressure scenarios, the rivalry between the Victoire and Fleet has grown into an entertaining affair each time. Despite the Fleet not being able to win the game, I can almsot guarantee that the Boston crowd had a fantastic time and I would bet that the chippy nature of the game played into their enjoyment. Seeing rivalries develop in a newer league feels like a sign of intention and longevity.

The Fleet and Victoire are currently battling for home ice advantage in the playoffs. They will play each other one more time on April 17 at Place Bell before the season ends on the 25th.