Sweeney pointed to the team's depth and resiliency as the major reasons why a team that was without Patrice Bergeron, Zdeno Chara, David Pastrnak, Charlie McAvoy, Torey Krug - and many others - for significant stretches was able to emerge as one of the league's best teams.
"I think we tested the depth of the organization in all positions, and I think that we set out to have a strong tandem in net and that was validated, so both goaltenders receive a lot of credit for that," said Sweeney, whose club at one point secured at least a point in 19 straight games. "And really the resiliency of the group overall…I have to speak to the coaches because they're a big part of that. To sort of refocus and re-shift the direction of the team at times when you are not, maybe, hitting on all cylinders and finding a way to win is important.
"It was a hell of a stretch that we put together there. To go [12] games at home without being beaten and then gain points in [19] consecutive games says a lot of the group."
But now it's time to turn the page. The Bruins' focus has shifted to the Toronto Maple Leafs and the team's first-round rematch from a season ago.
"They're a difficult opponent, clearly," said Sweeney. "They're an elite team, and we're going to have to have all facets of our game at the top of our capabilities. It's going to start with, right from the drop of the puck, playing the right way, and I think our team knows what our identity is.
"We're going to have to play to our strengths, and we're going to have to minimize the effect that they can, but they're a dangerous club. We have to be very respectful of our opponent, and we should be."
With the Bruins having qualified for their third straight postseason appearance, including last year's trip to the second round, Sweeney believes that the team's young players - like its championship core - are more prepared for the rigors of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
"Some of the guys are a little more battle tested, but every year is so different," said Sweeney. "I know we're playing the same opponent in the first round, but they made changes in their team. Our team continues to evolve. Hopefully we have players that have gone through experiences that they can benefit from.
"You just have to go out and put your best foot forward. It's up to every individual at this point in time to play their best hockey because that's what it requires. You have to have some fortunate bounces, but you have to make your own luck, and you have to try and be as healthy as possible."
