Boston is on the second half of a back-to-back set following a 3-2 loss to the Washington Capitals on Wednesday. They have been outscored 16-8 in their past four games (0-3-1). Tampa Bay, which defeated the Florida Panthers 2-1 on Tuesday, is seeking to win consecutive games for the first time since winning three straight from Nov. 21-25. The Lightning, who begin a four-game homestand, are 1-4-0 in their past five games at Amalie Arena.
Players to watch
Bruins forward Brad Marchand has three assists in his past two games. Lightning captain Steven Stamkos has seven points (four goals, three assists) in his past five games.
They said it
"That middle group [David Krejci's line] needs to push themselves a little bit…We expect [Krejci] to drive that line. (Anders) Bjork is playing hard, working hard, we expect Danton (Heinen) to get inside a little more. Charlie (Coyle) to get inside a little more. A little more puck possession. Harder to play against with the puck. Attack mentality." -- Bruins coach Bruce Cassidy on production from the second and third lines "They're obviously one the best lines in the League. We've got to do our best to slow them down, but they are going to get opportunities. It's up to us to eliminate them as much as we can and force them to play on their end." -- Lightning defenseman Victor Hedman on Brad Marchand, Patrice Bergeron and David Pastrnak
Cassidy said that Moore was going to skate this morning and if he was able to play he would draw in for Clifton. … Lightning head coach Jon Cooper said Johnson will not be available through the weekend. … Coburn did some light skating on his own Thursday.
Stat pack
DeBrusk needs one point for 100 in the NHL. … Kucherov needs two goals for 200 in the NHL. …Pastrnak has 10 points (six goals, four assists) in his past nine games. … Killorn has eight points (four goals, four assists) in his past five games.
