Yelle

BOSTON — Boston Bruins center Stephane Yelle needs his team to win tonight’s Game 7 of its Eastern Conference semifinal series at TD Banknorth Garden not just so the Bruins can advance to the Eastern Conference finals for the first time 1992.

A win by the Black and Gold would improve Yelle’s career record in Game 7 situations to .500 level, as  he currently stands at 5-6. Once he skates in his 12th career  Game 7 tonight, Yelle — already the active leader in Game 7 appearances — will tie Glenn Anderson and Ken Daneyko for the most all-time. But that doesn’t mean his stomach doesn’t still feel the magnitude of the situation.

“Of course, you’re nervous,” said Yelle after the Bruins’ morning skate in preparation for Game 7. “I think if you’re not then I think you should be, a little bit. Then again everyone gets ready for this game differently. Some guys are more nervous than others and that’s just the way it is.”

Yelle has recorded three assists in his 11 previous Game 7s. But, of course, his contribution is never counted in points. It’s Yelle intangible contributions that help the Bruins now and helped Colorado over the years, including their Cup-winning season of 2001 — which needed a Game 7.

“Game 7 for the Cup, that’s the ultimate thing. That’s what you play for, Game 7, winning the Stanley Cup. From what I remember it was awesome. Again, we were in front of our home fans. It’s always special to be playing in front of your fans in a Game 7,” Yelle said.

So the Bruins’ quietest player, ironically named Yelle, is looking forward to a loud crowd. Every little bit will help the Bruins put away their nerves and take this series.