The two Atlantic Division rivals are not far removed from a postseason atmosphere after meeting in the second round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs last spring. The Bruins battled with the Lightning for the No. 1 seed in the Eastern Conference over the final six weeks of 2017-18, at one time overtaking Tampa, before ultimately falling 1 point short with a loss to Florida in the season's final game.
Tampa finished with 113 points and secured home ice for the second-round showdown with the Bruins, which the Lightning won in five games, before succumbing to the eventual Stanley Cup champion Washington Capitals in the Eastern Conference Finals.
With 100 points through 63 games this season, the Lightning appear poised to shatter their mark from a year ago and have emerged as the clear favorite to hoist the Stanley Cup this spring.
"It's incredible the season they're having," said Marchand. "It obviously speaks to their depth, how well they've played all year long. Just the consistency in their group. If you want to compete with them, you have to bring your A-game every night.
"They obviously have some very dangerous players that can take over the game with one play. You can't sleep on them at all. They're an impressive team."
Tampa, winner of 10 straight, entered the day as the league leader in scoring (3.84 goals per game), power play (29.7%), and penalty kill (85.7%). They are fourth in goals allowed (2.49 per game).
"We saw it last year firsthand. We know how good they can be, certainly no weaknesses," said Bruins coach Bruce Cassidy. "The fact that they're No. 1 on the power play and penalty kill…goals for, top of the league. That's special. Usually, you have a deficiency somewhere, but it doesn't look like they do, and we're going to find out [on Thursday night]."