The Boston Bruins are riding a wave of momentum as they prepare for a crucial Atlantic Division showdown against the surging Ottawa Senators on Thursday night. With the regular season ticking down and every point carrying immense weight, Boston is defying expectations after parting ways with key players at the NHL trade deadline.
Tuesday’s dramatic 3-2 comeback victory over the division-leading Florida Panthers marked the Bruins’ second consecutive win, snapping a prior three-game skid. Now, with new additions Marat Khusnutdinov, Casey Mittelstadt, and Henri Jokiharju stepping into the lineup, Boston is fueled by fresh energy and an underdog mentality.
“We know our position in the standings and what just happened with our roster, but this is an opportunity for our new guys,” interim head coach Joe Sacco said. “Whatever fuels them—being overlooked, getting a fresh start—we need to come together fast.”
For the newcomers, making an immediate impact is critical with playoff intensity heating up.
“You want to start off on the right foot, make a strong first impression,” Mittelstadt said. “Go out there, play hard, and prove you’re here to compete.”
With veteran leaders like Charlie Coyle, Brandon Carlo, and captain Brad Marchand gone, David Pastrnak has emerged as the team’s guiding force—both on and off the ice. His performance Tuesday was nothing short of inspiring, recording a goal and an assist to help complete the Bruins’ third-period rally from a 2-0 deficit.
“He’s been incredible—a natural leader,” goaltender Jeremy Swayman said. “He’s learned from some of the best, and now he’s taking those lessons and leading this group himself.”
But standing in Boston’s way is an Ottawa squad on a tear. The Senators have rattled off four straight wins, strengthening their hold on an Eastern Conference wild-card spot with a commanding 5-2 victory over Philadelphia on Tuesday.
Senators captain Brady Tkachuk has been the catalyst of their surge, netting seven goals in the last seven games as Ottawa pushes for its first playoff appearance since 2017.
“This stretch defines us,” Tkachuk said. “This is what I’ve dreamed of—fighting for a playoff spot, battling every night to bring something special back to Ottawa.”
Another key factor in Ottawa’s rise? Dylan Cozens. Since being acquired from Buffalo, he’s been red-hot, posting goals in back-to-back games and fueling an already dangerous lineup.
“These high-stakes games? You live for them,” Cozens said. “Every night is a battle. And I’m ready for what’s next.”
Thursday night, two teams with everything to prove will collide. With playoff hopes hanging in the balance, expect fireworks.