The Boston Bruins put together a strong 1981-82 campaign, finishing second in the Adams Division with a 43-27-10 record. Under head coach Gerry Cheevers, the team showcased a potent offense led by Rick Middleton, who scored 51 goals and 94 points, and rookie Barry Pederson, who impressed with 92 points. Future Hall of Fame defenseman Ray Bourque continued his stellar play with 66 points while anchoring a defense that allowed the fourth-fewest goals in the league. The Bruins carried their regular-season success into the playoffs, defeating the Buffalo Sabres in the division semifinals before falling in a hard-fought seven-game series to the Quebec Nordiques.