There's multiple ways the Bruins can clinch a playoff spot Saturday

PUBLICATION

Dorin Canaday
March 11, 2023 (12:00)

SHARE THIS STORY

After blowing a rare third period lead to lose in regulation to the Oilers on Thursday night, the Boston Bruins have another chance to clinch an early berth in the 2023 NHL Playoffs.

With the Red Wings visiting TD Garden for a Saturday matinee, NHL Public Relations shared the multiple scenarios that could unfold today.

See below:

BRUINS CLINCHING SCENARIO IF THEY DEFEAT THE RED WINGS IN REGULATION:

The Bruins will clinch a playoff berth if they defeat the Red Wings in regulation AND either of the following occurs:

(1) The Islanders lose to the Capitals in any fashion
(2) The Senators lose to the Canucks in regulation

---

BRUINS CLINCHING SCENARIO IF THEY DEFEAT THE RED WINGS IN OVERTIME OR SHOOTOUT:

The Bruins will clinch a playoff berth if they defeat the Red Wings in overtime or shootout AND either of the following occurs:

(1) The Islanders lose to the Capitals in regulation
(2) The Senators lose to the Canucks in regulation

The earliest a team has ever clinched was the 1978-79 New York Islanders, who did it with 25 games remaining. However, 12 of 17 teams made the playoffs that season.

The earliest a team has clinched with a closer league format to today, was the 2001-02 Detroit Red Wings with 16 games remaining.