Bruins Face Jets in Crucial NHL Showdown After Tough Loss

BOSTON, Mass. — The Boston Bruins (25-21-6) will attempt to rebound from a crushing 7-2 loss to the Buffalo Sabres as they host the Winnipeg Jets (35-14-3) at TD Garden on Thursday night. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET, with the game broadcast on ESPN+.

The Bruins, who snapped a two-game winning streak with their loss to the Sabres, have struggled offensively, scoring three or fewer goals in their last four games. Left wing Brad Marchand and defenseman Mason Lohrei were the lone scorers in Tuesday’s defeat. Meanwhile, the Jets are riding a four-game winning streak, including a dominant 4-1 victory over the Montreal Canadiens, where left wing Kyle Connor netted two goals.

Winnipeg leads the season series 1-0 after an 8-1 rout of the Bruins on Dec. 10. The Jets have been formidable on both ends of the ice, scoring four or more goals in three straight games and allowing two or fewer goals in five of their last six matchups.

Goaltending will be a key factor in Thursday’s game. Winnipeg’s Connor Hellebuyck, the NHL’s top goalie this season, boasts a 31-7-2 record with a 2.00 goals-against average (GAA), a .927 save percentage (SV%), and six shutouts. In contrast, Boston’s Jeremy Swayman has struggled, with a 16-17-4 record, a 3.03 GAA, and an .895 SV%, ranking 40th or worse in both categories.

“Hellebuyck has been a wall for us this season,” said Jets head coach Rick Bowness. “His consistency gives us confidence every night.”

For the Bruins, the challenge will be breaking through Winnipeg’s defense while shoring up their own. Boston has allowed five or more goals in two of its last four games and at least three goals in seven of its last 10.

“We need to regroup and focus on playing our game,” said Bruins captain Brad Marchand. “We know what we’re capable of, and it’s time to show it.”

Betting odds favor the Jets, with the moneyline set at -145 and the puck line at +170. The over/under for total goals is set at 5.5, with the Jets’ recent offensive surge and the Bruins’ defensive struggles making the over a tempting option.

Fans can stream the game on ESPN+ or follow live updates on NESN and 98.5 The Sports Hub.