Bruins, Stars Meet in Dallas With Playoff Implications DALLAS (Interstat) — Two teams jockeying for position in the crowded NHL playoff picture will clash Tuesday when the Boston Bruins visit the Dallas Stars at American Airlines Center. The Bruins (28-21-0) arrive riding a five-game winning streak, including a 5-2 road victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on Saturday. The Stars (27-22-0), meanwhile, look to halt a two-game skid after a 4-1 home loss to Tampa Bay on Sunday. Boston has found its offensive rhythm during its streak, outscoring opponents 27-6. Center Pavel Zacha has been a catalyst, recording six goals and five assists in his last 10 games. He had two assists in the win over Chicago, following a three-goal performance against the New York Rangers on Jan. 10. Dallas will rely on goaltender Jake Oettinger to cool the Bruins’ attack. Oettinger has struggled recently, posting a 1-5-0 record in his last six appearances with a .879 save percentage. He allowed four goals on 25 shots against the Lightning. The teams are separated by just two points in the standings, making this a critical matchup as the season approaches the All-Star break. Boston holds a narrow edge in the all-time series, but Dallas won the previous meeting last season. Following this game, the Bruins return home to face Vegas on Thursday. The Stars hit the road for a game in Columbus on Thursday. Projected Lineup Notes: Boston’s defense, led by scorers Mason Lohrei and Charlie McAvoy from the back end, will test Dallas’s depth. The Stars need production from top-line forwards to support Oettinger and reverse a 2-7-1 stretch over their last 10 games. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. CST.