Bruins Revamp Roster Ahead of Critical Game Against Maple Leafs

BOSTON — The Boston Bruins gear up for a pivotal matchup against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday night at TD Garden, as they aim to end a three-game losing streak. The game will start at 7 p.m. EST.

Interim head coach Joe Sacco announced changes to the lineup, with Cole Koepke and Oliver Wahlstrom stepping in for Justin Brazeau and Riley Tufte. Sacco emphasized the need for speed in their game against a fast-paced Toronto team.

“We’ve got to inject some speed into our lineup tonight against Toronto. Fast team. We want to get some pace back into our game a little bit more here so [Koepke] can provide that,” Sacco said.

Wahlstrom, who sat out Saturday’s loss to Anaheim as a healthy scratch, noted the importance of being consistent. “Just working on my skating, my speed, try to get that shot off as best as I can and find those openings,” Wahlstrom stated. He will be skating alongside Trent Frederic and Matt Poitras on the Bruins’ third line.

The Bruins (27-24-7) find themselves just one point behind the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference as the playoffs loom. They previously defeated the Maple Leafs in an overtime showdown earlier this season and are looking to regain momentum. “It’s coming down to crunch time now. I think every period is important right now,” Wahlstrom affirmed.

Meanwhile, the Maple Leafs enter the game with a strong record of 35-20-2, sitting atop the Atlantic Division with 72 points, and are poised to clinch a playoff spot. Their key players, such as Mitch Marner and William Nylander, have been instrumental in their recent success, with Marner boasting 55 assists and Nylander leading the team with 33 goals.

In goal, Jeremy Swayman is expected to start after being the first netminder off the ice during morning skate. His performance will be critical for the Bruins against a talented Toronto offense.

Wahlstrom is wary of the Maple Leafs’ speed and skill. “Toronto plays a fast, skilled game. We’ve just got to get to our game early and stick to it,” he added. The importance of securing points as the playoff race intensifies is clear among the Bruins.

The game promises to be a must-watch for fans as both teams vie for crucial points in the final stretch of the season. The Bruins will look to turn their fortunes around against a division rival that is in strong playoff contention.