Bruins ‘more concerned’ with remaining games than clinching division

The Boston Bruins can clinch the Atlantic Division on Monday night with a win in any fashion over the Washington Capitals.

But that’s not what they’re focused on as the regular season nears its end.

“We’ve been more prepared on how we’re playing, trying to really hone in our game. … We’ve always had success this year when we focus day to day and not really look at. the bigger picture,” captain Brad Marchand told reporters after Monday’s practice. “So really haven’t been looking at that. … The standings will take care of themselves. It would be good to clinch that and have home ice at some point, but we’re more concerned with how we’re playing and making sure we’re playing really well the last few games.”

The Bruins have won five of their last six games, and Saturday’s 6-4 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins solidified that they’ll finish no worse than second in the Atlantic Division. There are some things to improve, though, before the Stanley Cup Playoffs begin, including the power play.

Going into Monday’s penultimate game, Boston is in a 2-for-30 skid on the man advantage. Coach Jim Montgomery said he wants to see more “pace and purpose,” and elected to switch up the power play units during practice.

While the Bruins have a spot in the playoffs locked up, the Capitals are fighting to keep their hopes alive and control their own destiny. Washington has to win its next two games to get into the postseason, but if the Capitals don’t, they’ll then rely on other teams for help.