The Boston Bruins are set to face off against the Ottawa Senators on Monday night at the Canadian Tire Centre. This game marks a brief road trip for the Bruins, who are coming off a recent victory against the Colorado Avalanche, winning 3-2 at TD Garden. The puck is scheduled to drop at 7:30 p.m.
Current Team Dynamics and Player Updates
Bruins head coach Marco Sturm commented on the team’s recent performance, noting that while they are improving, there is still work to be done. “Usually, wins help a little bit. But again, we’re just on the way. Are we there yet? No. But I think guys are feeling more and more comfortable with it,” he said.
Marat Khusnutdinov will return to the lineup for this game after missing time. The forward last played on October 19 against the Utah Mammoth and has registered one point in five games this season. Sturm emphasized Khusnutdinov’s speed, indicating a strategy to leverage his abilities on the forecheck and around the ice.
Lineup Changes
- Khusnutdinov will join Mark Kastelic and Sean Kuraly on the fourth line.
- Johnny Beecher and Jeffrey Viel will sit out for this game.
Kastelic, who previously spent three seasons with the Senators, shared his thoughts on Khusnutdinov. “He’s a very skilled, intelligent player. Hard on pucks, even for his size, I think he holds onto pucks really well,” said Kastelic. He added that he believes Khusnutdinov will enhance their line’s performance.
Key Goaltending and Defense Notes
Jeremy Swayman will start in goal for the Bruins for the second consecutive game. The goaltender made 31 saves in the recent win over the Avalanche and holds a 2.85 goals against average with a .910 save percentage through six games this season.
On the defensive side, Michael Callahan remains in the Bruins’ lineup after being called up from Providence last week. He is expected to form the third defensive pair with Henri Jokiharju against the Senators. Additionally, Jonathan Aspirot has been recalled from Providence, while Hampus Lindholm has been placed on injured reserve.
Conclusion
As the Bruins prepare to face the Senators, all eyes will be on the performance of their returning players and the effectiveness of their overall game strategy. The matchup promises to be an exciting challenge for the Boston squad.
