Bruins Aim to End Six-Game Skid Against Defending Champion Panthers

The Boston Bruins, mired in a six-game losing streak, face a daunting challenge as they take on the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers on Saturday at Amerant Bank Arena. The Bruins, who last endured such a skid in 2019, are looking to reverse their fortunes against a Panthers team that has dominated them this season and eliminated them in last year’s playoffs.

Boston’s struggles continued Thursday night with a 4-1 loss to the Tampa Bay Lightning. Despite a third-period goal, the Bruins couldn’t overcome Tampa’s early lead. Earlier in the week, the team was booed off the ice at TD Garden after a 4-0 defeat to the Edmonton Oilers. Interim head coach Joe Sacco acknowledged the team’s frustration, stating, ‘We need to find a way to get back to playing our game.’

The Bruins (20-19-5, 45 points) may be without forward Mark Kastelic, who suffered an injury in the Lightning game. Defenseman Hampus Lindholm practiced but is unlikely to play. Meanwhile, the Panthers (25-15-2, 52 points) could be without Aaron Ekblad, who missed practice Friday and is a game-time decision.

Florida, currently second in the Atlantic Division, has won both matchups against Boston this season and holds a psychological edge after last year’s playoff victory. Puck drop is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET, with the game broadcast on ESPN.