Bruins Aim for Second Straight Win as Kastelic Returns Against Wild

BOSTON – The Boston Bruins are set to host the Minnesota Wild at TD Garden on Tuesday night, aiming for their second consecutive victory following a 6-3 win over the New York Rangers on Saturday. Interim head coach Joe Sacco confirmed that Jeremy Swayman will start in goal, while Mark Kastelic returns to the lineup after missing eight of the last 10 games due to injury.

“Can we build off what we did last game? Can we move forward in the right direction?” Sacco said during a media briefing. “I think with our group, the thing that we focus on is what we did well last game and how we can build off of that.” Sacco highlighted improvements in the team’s power play and game management during their recent win.

Captain Brad Marchand emphasized the importance of treating the remaining games before the 4 Nations Face-Off break with playoff-level intensity. “We’re playing some very important games and some really good teams,” Marchand said. “They’re games you really get excited for. When you’re able to break down into smaller segments, you can definitely treat it that way.”

Kastelic, who will center the fourth line between Johnny Beecher and Justin Brazeau, expressed his eagerness to return. “I’m very excited, I don’t know how long it’s been. But it’s been long enough,” Kastelic said. “Eager and hungry to hopefully contribute and put my best foot forward and have fun out there.” He added that he feels fully recovered and ready to play without restrictions.

Defenseman Michael Callahan will also be available for Tuesday’s game despite sustaining an injury during Saturday’s win. Callahan lost three teeth and required stitches after taking a puck to the mouth but returned to practice on Monday wearing a protective bubble shield. “I have to go back and get more work done probably next week during break,” Callahan said. “But I’m good enough to go [on Tuesday].”

Meanwhile, the Bruins will continue to be without defenseman Hampus Lindholm, who has been sidelined since Nov. 12 with a lower-body injury. Sacco confirmed that Lindholm is unlikely to return before the 4 Nations Face-Off break. “We’re erring more on the side of caution right now,” Sacco said. “No setback. That’s where we’re at in his progress.”

The Wild, who hold the league’s best road record at 20-6-3, are coming off a 6-0 loss to Ottawa on Saturday. Despite the absence of star forward Kirill Kaprizov due to injury, Minnesota remains a formidable opponent with key contributors like Marco Rossi, Matt Boldy, and Mats Zuccarello. “They didn’t have a great game last game, so they’re gonna want to come out and respond,” Marchand said. “We have to be prepared.”

Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET, with the game broadcast on NESN and 98.5 The Sports Hub.