The Boston Bruins are gearing up for their matchup against the Ottawa Senators on Tuesday night as they aim to secure their third consecutive victory during their ongoing homestand at TD Garden. With a record of 5-1-1 in their last seven games, the Bruins have regained the top spot in the NHL standings with 95 points, edging out the Rangers and Panthers by a single point.

Coach Jim Montgomery expressed that the team's focus has always been on preparing for the playoffs as they entered the month of March. While mental readiness is progressing, Montgomery believes the team is yet to fully execute their game plan on the ice. However, he acknowledges that the regular season serves as a valuable opportunity to face challenges and learn from both victories and losses.

As the final 13 games of the regular season approach, Montgomery plans to experiment with different line combinations to discover the ideal lineup for the playoffs. The emphasis will be on finding a combination that maximizes success, rewarding players who perform well and fostering an atmosphere of urgency to maintain their positions in the lineup.

Compared to the same time last year, the Bruins find themselves in a different situation in terms of their overall approach. Last season, they felt like a well-oiled machine. However, this year, they are pushing harder to achieve their goals and secure playoff positioning and home-ice advantage. Montgomery expressed that this renewed focus has created a healthier and more rewarding environment for everyone involved as they strive to improve further.

In terms of roster decisions, defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk, who had been a healthy scratch for the last two games, will return to the lineup and play alongside Andrew Peeke on the third defensive pair. Additionally, Danton Heinen will once again move up to play left wing on a line with Pavel Zacha and David Pastrnak. Pastrnak expressed confidence in Heinen's abilities, emphasizing his smart play and ability to create scoring opportunities.

In net, Linus Ullmark is expected to start as the Bruins' goaltender for the matchup against the Senators. Forward James van Riemsdyk was among the players participating in the optional morning skate, suggesting that he may be a healthy scratch for the game.

Furthermore, coach Montgomery provided an update on Pat Maroon, who is still recovering from back surgery and remains "week-to-week." Maroon will not be playing this week, according to Montgomery's statement.

Looking ahead to the fourth line, Johnny Beecher and Jesper Boqvist will share centerman duties. Beecher will take draws in the defensive zone due to his exceptional ability in that area, while Boqvist will handle center duties during 5-on-5 play to maximize his puck-handling skills and speed.

Meanwhile, the Ottawa Senators are coming off a 7-2 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes, ending their three-game winning streak. With a season record of 28-34-4 and 60 points, the Senators are led by Tim Stutzle, who has accumulated 64 points in 66 games, and Brady Tkachuk, who leads the team with 30 goals.

The Bruins are hoping to maintain their winning streak and continue their push towards the playoffs, while the Senators aim to rebound from their recent defeat. The stage is set for an exciting game at TD Garden, as both teams look to assert their dominance on the ice.