The first contest in NBCSN’s doubleheader is big for the Boston Bruins and enormous for the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The Bolts trail the Bruins by four points in the race for the East’s final spot, and while other Atlantic teams are in Boston’s zip code, Tampa Bay’s best way of making up ground is simply beating the Bruins in regulation.
Don’t expect the Bruins to make it easy, however, as playoff positioning could change dramatically if they can keep it together this week:
Atlantic at a glance (Montreal clinched division title)
2. Maple Leafs - 93 points in 78 games
3. Senators - 92 points in 78 games
Bruins - 92 points in 79 games
Lightning - 88 points in 78 games
Yep, as you can see, the Bolts’ most realistic route to the postseason is by beating the B’s, especially since Boston will only play two more games after tonight.
Check out this preview of both NBCSN games, which also includes a big contest for the Edmonton Oilers against the Los Angeles Kings. You can also watch this game online and via the NBC Sports App.