The Bruins had a chance to secure a playoff spot by winning against Tampa Bay on Wednesday, but they didn't have enough energy to get the one point they needed.
No need to worry.
The Bruins secured a playoff spot on Thursday as the Canadiens defeated the Flyers. This marks the eighth consecutive season the Bruins have made it to the playoffs.
Although the Bruins are officially in the playoffs, their opponent is still undecided. Currently, they may face the Lightning, who defeated them 3-1 on Wednesday.
The Bruins maintained their first place in the Atlantic Division on Thursday because the Florida Panthers lost to the Islanders. However, the Panthers still have a chance to surpass the Bruins as they have a game in hand and possess the tiebreaker, trailing the Bruins by just two points. The Bruins have eight more regular season games.
The Bruins will have a day off on Friday before facing the Washington Capitals on Saturday. The Capitals, who surprisingly beat the Bruins 3-0 at the Garden on Feb. 10, are fighting for a playoff spot. They currently hold a two-point lead for the second wild card, but they are also one point behind the Flyers for third place in the Metropolitan Division.