The Boston Bruins are gearing up for another matinee game as they prepare to face off against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on Saturday. The Bruins are coming off a disappointing loss to the Detroit Red Wings on Black Friday and are determined to avoid their first losing streak of the season.

Head coach Jim Montgomery expressed his optimism for the team's future, particularly highlighting the potential of defenseman Mason Lohrei. Despite some growing pains, Lohrei has showcased impressive skills during his recent run. However, if Matt Grzelcyk is cleared to return after missing the past 10 games with an upper-body injury, Lohrei may find himself sitting out this game.

The New York Rangers are also coming off a matinee game, where they emerged victorious against the Philadelphia Flyers, with Mika Zibanejad leading the charge with a two-goal performance. The return of New York native Kevin Shattenkirk, who had been sidelined for load management, adds depth to the Rangers' defensive lineup.

As for the Bruins, they are eagerly awaiting the return of Grzelcyk, whose absence has been felt over the past few games. With his potential return, the Bruins' defensive unit is expected to receive a boost. However, decisions regarding the lineup are yet to be finalized, with players like Morgan Geekie, Jakub Lauko, and Danton Heinen potentially being shuffled around in the forward lines.

In terms of goaltending, the Bruins are likely to rotate Linus Ullmark in the net, while the Rangers will see UMass alum Jonathan Quick take over for Igor Shesterkin, who started against the Flyers.

The puck drop at Madison Square Garden is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET, and fans can tune in to NESN for full coverage starting at noon. The Bruins, currently boasting a 14-2-3 record, will be aiming to reclaim their winning ways and secure a valuable win against the formidable Rangers (14-3-1).

With both teams hungry for victory, Saturday's game promises to be an intense battle between two talented squads. The Bruins, determined to bounce back, will be relying on their established stars like Brad Marchand, David Pastrnak, and Charlie McAvoy to lead the charge. Meanwhile, the Rangers, buoyed by strong performances from players like Chris Kreider, Blake Wheeler, and Artemi Panarin, will be looking to extend their own winning streak.

It remains to be seen which team will come out on top, but hockey fans can expect an exciting matchup as the Bruins and Rangers clash on the ice.