from DJ Bean of WEEI,

While there’s plenty of reason to fear the Bruins missing the playoffs for the second straight season, they still have the two things everyone wants at this time of year: a playoff spot to lose and health. As of Monday, the Bruins sit third in the Eastern Conference with 88 points through 76 games. Realistically speaking, the third spot in the Atlantic is the best they can hope for and it’s the only thing they should desire. Because a Metropolitan team will likely sew up the first wild card, the Bruins would have to play Washington in the first round if they got in via the Eastern Conference’s final spot...

With games (all on the road) against the Devils, Blues and Blackhawks awaiting this week, here’s how the Bruins can right the ship:

Get some secondary scoring...

- Ryan Spooner has two even-strength points over his last 12 games, only one of which came in 5-on-5 play.

- Jimmy Hayes has zero points in his last 14 games.

- Matt Beleskey, who has played between the second and third lines, had just one point (an assist) in his 13 games prior to Saturday’s two-point effort, which included an empty-net goal.

- Brett Connolly, who has been a healthy scratch in three of Boston’s last four games, has only one point (a goal) in his last nine games.

- Landon Ferraro has gone 11 games without a point.

- Though just 13 games into his NHL career, Noel Acciari has one point (an assist).

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