BOSTON (AP) — The Boston Bruins became the first NHL team to clinch a playoff berth this season. The Bruins beat the Red Wings 3-2 and then earned a spot in the postseason when the Capitals beat the Islanders. Garnet Hathaway broke a third-period tie to lead Boston past Detroit. The Bruins earned their 50th win in their 64th game of the season, making them the fastest team to reach the milestone in NHL history. The previous record of 66 was set by the 1995-96 Red Wings and matched by the 2018-19 Lightning. Hampus Lindholm and Patrice Bergeron scored 88 seconds apart to help Boston rally from a two-goal deficit. Linus Ullmark stopped 30 shots. Magnus Hellberg made 35 saves for Detroit. Andrew Copp and Alex Chiasson scored for the Red Wings.
