Bruins Look to Rebound at Home Against Senators

The Boston Bruins are back on home ice Thursday night, looking to shake off Wednesday’s 5-1 loss to the New Jersey Devils and reclaim their form against the Ottawa Senators.

Boston’s recent streak of solid play (3-0-1) hit a speed bump in New Jersey. The loss came just days after the Bruins let a late two-goal lead slip away in a 6-5 shootout loss to Ottawa last Saturday.

Forward Morgan Geekie didn’t mince words:
“We’re letting games slip away. It’s embarrassing, and we need answers,” said Geekie, who scored Boston’s only goal on Wednesday — his third in five games.

Building Chemistry in Tough Times

David Pastrnak and Pavel Zacha continued their recent surge, with Pastrnak now tallying 12 points in his last five games.
“They’re heating up, no question,” said interim coach Joe Sacco. “Their chemistry is clicking at the right time.”

Still, defensive struggles remain. The Bruins gave up three power-play goals against the Devils and have allowed 35 or more shots in six of their last eight games.

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Goaltending Questions

Bruins goalie Jeremy Swayman was pulled after two periods on Wednesday, having allowed four goals on 29 shots. Sacco revealed Swayman was “dealing with something minor” but hinted he could return Thursday.

On the Senators’ side, rookie goalie Leevi Merilainen has been a bright spot, stepping up with Linus Ullmark sidelined. Merilainen boasts a 6-3-1 record with a 2.32 goals-against average in 10 games.

Ottawa Eyes a Playoff Push

After a 5-0 loss to the Rangers on Tuesday, the Senators had time to reset in Boston. Despite the setback, Ottawa’s recent 5-1-1 run has them holding an Eastern Conference playoff spot.

“We have to respond and stick to what’s been working,” said veteran forward Claude Giroux.

Captain Brady Tkachuk is looking to snap an eight-game point drought, saying:
“It’s all about putting in the extra work to prepare.”

The Senators will welcome David Perron back into the lineup Thursday, offering some veteran depth as Josh Norris (upper body) is sidelined.

High Stakes in Boston

With playoff implications looming large, both teams have plenty to fight for in this Atlantic Division clash. Will Boston regroup, or can Ottawa maintain its playoff momentum? Tune in Thursday night to find out.