Bruins Aim to End Losing Streak Against Oilers at TD Garden

BOSTON – The Boston Bruins will look to snap their four-game losing streak as they host Connor McDavid and the Edmonton Oilers on Tuesday night at TD Garden. The Oilers, riding a three-game winning streak, are tied for second place in the Pacific Division with a record of 24-12-3 (51 points). The Bruins, meanwhile, are seeking to regain momentum after a challenging stretch.

The Oilers have been in strong form, going 11-3-1 since December 1. Despite missing several games due to injury, McDavid remains a dominant force, ranking sixth in the NHL with 54 points (15 goals, 39 assists) in 36 games. Teammate Leon Draisaitl leads the Oilers with 59 points and tops the league with 29 goals in 39 games.

Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating, ‘You respect everyone in this league, it’s the NHL. Obviously, they have a little bit extra world-class skill. That’s no secret. If anything, these games are just fun. You get to size yourself up against two of the world’s best players and some other guys in there that are awesome hockey players too. I’m excited about the challenge.’

Boston’s lineup will feature some adjustments on defense. Parker Wotherspoon will pair with McAvoy on the top defensive line, while Nikita Zadorov will join Brandon Carlo on the second pairing. The Bruins’ forward lines remain unchanged from their previous game against the New York Islanders.

Injury updates include defenseman Hampus Lindholm, who has been sidelined since November 12 with a lower-body injury. Lindholm skated on his own Tuesday morning, but interim head coach Joe Sacco provided no timeline for his return. ‘He might have skated a couple days before that on his own,’ Sacco said. ‘There’s still no timeline right now. Our medical staff will tell me when he’s ready to go.’

The Bruins will rely on goaltender Jeremy Swayman, who is expected to start against the Oilers. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET, with coverage on NESN and 98.5 The Sports Hub.