The Boston Bruins are on the cusp of a major comeback. After their eight-year playoff streak was snapped last season, the Black and Gold have battled back under coach Marco Sturm and now sit just two points away from punching their ticket to the 2026 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

While the Bruins themselves are off until Saturday, Thursday night's NHL slate could deliver the clinching scenario they need. With a magic number of two, Boston's playoff fate could be sealed with a little help from around the league.

Here’s how it can happen: The Bruins (96 points) would officially secure their postseason return if both the Columbus Blue Jackets (90 points) lose in regulation to Buffalo and the New York Islanders (89 points) drop their game against Toronto in either regulation or overtime.

It’s a pivotal moment for a franchise eager to return to its winning tradition. The regular season concludes on April 16, with the quest for the Cup beginning just two days later on April 18. For Bruins fans, the wait for playoff hockey might just end tonight.