How The Bruins Can Sneak Into Postseason
BOSTON (CBS) -- As we hit the final day of the NHL's regular season, the Boston Bruins are on the wrong side of the playoff picture.
Boston is not yet eliminated from playoff contention, but they'll need a lot of help on Saturday if their season is to continue.
The Bruins take on the Tampa Bay Lightning (game preview) in their regular season finale Saturday evening. It's a must-win for Boston, but a victory is not the only step needed in order for the Bruins to continue their season.
In addition to a win of their own, Boston needs the scorching-hot Ottawa Senators to lose to the Philadelphia Flyers in regulation. Update: Ottawa won 3-1, clinching a playoff spot.
Should the Senators win, all hope is not lost. If the Bruins win in regulation or overtime on Saturday night they can still sneak into the postseason, but need the Pittsburgh Penguins to lose in regulation or overtime to the Buffalo Sabres (game-time at 7pm). The Penguins have lost five straight (including a chance to lock up a playoff spot Friday night against the Islanders). They're currently stuck at 96 points, one ahead of Boston. The Bruins own the tiebreaker over Pittsburgh.
The odds are stacked against the Bruins making the playoffs, but there is still a sliver of hope on the final day of the regular season.
Tune in to Bruins-Lightning on 98.5 The Sports Hub -- the flagship station of the Boston Bruins. Pregame with Dave Goucher and Bob Beers begins at 7pm!