Bruins Host Sharks in Key Late-Season Matchup

Boston looks to extend home winning streak against San Jose

Published on Mar. 12, 2026

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The Boston Bruins (36-22-6) will host the San Jose Sharks (30-26-6) at the TD Garden tonight. The Bruins are aiming to defend a 13-game home winning streak, while the Sharks are looking to stay in the playoff hunt on the road. David Pastrnak is expected to return to the lineup after missing the morning skate for the birth of his daughter.

Why it matters

This late-season matchup between the Bruins and Sharks has playoff implications, as both teams are jockeying for position in their respective conferences. The Bruins are trying to gain ground on teams like the Blue Jackets and Red Wings, while the Sharks are hoping to climb back into the playoff picture in the Western Conference.

The details

The Bruins have been dominant at home, outscoring opponents 50-21 during their 13-game winning streak at the TD Garden. The Sharks, on the other hand, have struggled on the road, posting a 13-16-1 record away from home. Boston will look to its top line of Marat Khusnutdinov, Elias Lindholm, and David Pastrnak to lead the way, while San Jose will rely on its depth scoring to try and pull off the upset.

  • The Bruins' 13-game home winning streak dates back to December 23, 2025.
  • This is the second of five games on the road for the Sharks.

The players

David Pastrnak

The Bruins' star forward missed the morning skate due to the birth of his daughter, but is expected to play in the game.

Marco Sturm

The Bruins' assistant coach discussed the lineup changes, including the return of Alex Steeves to the lineup.

Sheng Peng

The San Jose Hockey Now reporter provided the expected Sharks lineup for the game.

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What they’re saying

“I try to have everyone involved. Mikey didn't do anything wrong. Just try to get (Steeves) into the mix. When he had that stretch, where he played his best hockey was because of his forecheck. So hopefully he can do that tonight. Create some turnovers and some poucks for a guy like Minten or (Geekie).”

— Marco Sturm, Bruins Assistant Coach (bostonhockeynow.com)

What’s next

The Bruins will look to continue their home dominance and gain ground in the playoff race, while the Sharks will try to pull off an upset and keep their postseason hopes alive.

The takeaway

This late-season matchup between the Bruins and Sharks has significant playoff implications, as both teams are fighting for position in their respective conferences. The Bruins' strong home record and the Sharks' road struggles suggest Boston has the edge, but San Jose's depth could make for an interesting game.