NHL ROUNDUP : Neely Fuels Streaking Bruins Past Whalers, 4-1

Cam Neely is in his seventh season in the NHL. The first three were at Vancouver, a team that never was a winner.

Since joining the Boston Bruins, the veteran right wing has blossomed into a star. It has helped that the Bruins are usually a contender.

These days Neely is excited. He has the feeling the Bruins are ready to go after the Stanley Cup. He is doing his part.

Neely scored the tiebreaking goal Monday night at Boston and assisted on another to lead the Bruins to a 4-1 victory over the Hartford Whalers.

The Bruins, leading the Adams Division, have won 10 of their last 12 games and have the best overall record (27-16-3).

“I’m excited about this club,” said Neely, who has 32 goals. “We have the size and strength we have lacked. We’re ready to play anybody.”

Boston goalie Andy Moog made 32 saves.

Toronto 7, Chicago 6--A controversial goal by Wendel Clark with 6:15 remaining in regulation enabled the improving Maple Leafs to finish their homestand with a 6-1-1 record.

Chicago goaltender Jacques Cloutier had his mitt covering the puck after a shot. But Clark poked at it, finally dislodging the puck and sending it over the line.

The Blackhawks claimed the play should have been blown dead, but referee Ron Hoggarth allowed the goal.

Montreal 4, Minnesota 3--Todd Ewen’s first goal of the season with 8:42 remaining in regulation at Montreal gave the Canadiens the victory.

Ewen, acquired from St. Louis, knocked in the rebound of a shot by Brian Skrudland. It was the 13th game Ewen played since being traded by the Blues.