Panthers and Bruins Prepare for Tense Matchup: Projected Lineups and Game Preview

The Florida Panthers and the Boston Bruins are set to face off at TD Garden tonight at 7:30 PM EST. Both teams are looking to break four-game losing streaks, adding extra intensity to this early-season contest. The game will be broadcast on ESPN, with radio coverage on 560 WQAM AM and 98.5 The Sports Hub.

Panthers' Projected Lineup

Despite their recent struggles, the Panthers are aiming to turn things around on the road. Here's a look at their projected lineup:

• Forwards:
  • Verhaeghe - Bennett - Reinhart
  • Luostarinen - Lundell - Marchand
  • Samoskevich - Rodrigues - Boqvist
  • Greer - Kunin - Gadjovich
• Defense:
  • Forsling - Ekblad
  • Mikkola - Jones
  • Balinskis - Petry
• Goalies:
  • Bobrovsky (Likely Starter)
  • Tarasov

Brad Marchand's return to Boston after being traded last March is a major storyline. He has three goals and three assists in seven games this season and expressed excitement about competing against his former teammates. The Panthers have been struggling offensively, particularly on the road, scoring only two goals in their last three games. In response, they've shuffled their power-play units, promoting Anton Lundell and Mackie Samoskevich to the top unit.

Bruins' Projected Lineup

The Bruins are also trying to find their footing after a series of losses. Coach Marco Sturm has been actively adjusting the lineup in search of a winning combination.

• Forwards:
  • Geekie - E. Lindholm - Pastrnak
  • Mittelstadt - Zacha - Arvidsson
  • Jeannot - Minten - Eyssimont
  • Viel - Kuraly - Kastelic
• Defense:
  • Lohrei - McAvoy
  • H. Lindholm - Peeke
  • Zadorov - Jokiharju
• Goalies:
  • Swayman (Likely Starter)
  • Korpisalo

David Pastrnak leads the Bruins with four goals this season. Casey Mittelstadt is expected to return to the lineup after being a healthy scratch in the previous game, playing left wing alongside Pavel Zacha and Viktor Arvidsson. The Bruins have struggled defensively, allowing an average of 3.6 goals per game over their last five games.

Key Matchups and Storylines

• Brad Marchand's Return: All eyes will be on Marchand as he plays his first game in Boston since the trade. His performance and reception from Bruins fans will be a major talking point.
• Offensive Struggles: Both teams need to find ways to generate more offense. The Panthers rank near the bottom of the league in goals per game, while the Bruins have been inconsistent.
• Defensive Adjustments: The Bruins, in particular, need to tighten up their defense. Goaltending will be crucial for both sides.
• Special Teams: The Panthers have a strong power play, while the Bruins will look to improve their efficiency with the man advantage.

Betting Odds and Predictions

The Panthers are favored to win with a -159 money line, while the Bruins are the underdogs at +133. The total is set at 5.5 goals.