Lightning eyeing Bruins vs. Hurricanes with playoff berth in sight

The Tampa Bay Lightning aren't playing Sunday, but they could clinch a playoff berth before the day is done.

The Lightning have lost two straight as they head into Monday's road game against the Montreal Canadiens. A win against Montreal would be enough for Tampa Bay to secure a spot, but they won't even need to do that if the Carolina Hurricanes defeat the Boston Bruins in regulation on Sunday.

The Canadiens and the New York Rangers have already clinched spots in the Eastern Conference. Tampa Bay would become the fifth team in the league to clinch despite a league-leading 44 regulation and overtime wins.

Carolina has one regulation victory against the Bruins in their last eight meetings.