The Boston Bruins face a challenging week as they embark on a road trip through Western Canada while striving to improve their position in the tightly contested Atlantic Division. Here’s a breakdown of their schedule and the major storylines surrounding the team from December 28th to January 3rd.

The Western Canada Road Trip

Following the holiday break and a recent loss to the Buffalo Sabres, the Bruins commence a three-game road trip through Western Canada. They are scheduled to face the Calgary Flames on December 29th, followed by the Edmonton Oilers, and the Vancouver Canucks within six days. This trip is known for its difficulty due to extensive travel and the physical style of play characteristic of Pacific Division teams.

Bruins' Standings and Marco Sturm

The Bruins' recent performance has seen them slide in the standings. With recent losses to the Sabres and the Ottawa Senators, they currently sit 7th in the Atlantic Division with 41 points. The Atlantic Division is highly competitive, and the Bruins are in a battle to maintain a playoff spot against teams like Buffalo and Ottawa.

First-year head coach Marco Sturm is under increased scrutiny as the team struggles with consistency. While the team has demonstrated potential, their recent struggles have raised concerns about their ability to secure a playoff berth. The Bruins hired Sturm in June of 2025.

Injury Updates

The Bruins are dealing with several injuries. Winger Tanner Jeannot is currently day-to-day. Defensemen Jonathan Aspirot and Henri Jokiharju are on injured reserve, but have been skating and traveled with the team, suggesting a potential return during the road trip. Jordan Harris is also out with an ankle injury, with a potential return date of January 6th. The team is relying on its depth on defense to compensate for these absences, which will be tested against high-scoring teams like the Edmonton Oilers.

Morgan Geekie's Performance

One of the surprising storylines of the season has been the performance of Morgan Geekie, who has emerged as a leading goal scorer in the NHL for 2025. His offensive contributions have validated the front office's decision to extend his contract.

Goaltending Stability

Goaltender Jeremy Swayman has been recognized for his strong play, providing stability during the team's injury challenges. Swayman's ability to rebound after losses has been crucial in keeping the Bruins competitive.

The Bruins face a critical week as they navigate a challenging road trip and aim to solidify their position in the Atlantic Division playoff race..