NHL schedule 2013: Five questions for Tuesday night's action

1. The Rangers and Bruins meet for the third and final time on the year. Who wins the season series?

The teams have split a pair of games so far this year, and in the final meeting between these two Eastern heavyweights, the Rangers are looking to continue a return to firm footing. The B's are 8-1-1 on the year and sit atop the East, while the Rangers have struggled in the early going but finally seem to be getting going. Who comes out on top?

2. The Sharks need to rebound. Will they vs. Nashville?

Fear The Fin's recap headline on Monday night was a simple "Hahahahaha." That's how it's going for San Jose in the month of February after a red-hot start.

3. Can the Ducks give Chicago their first loss?

The Blackhawks have yet to lose in regulation, but Anaheim's playing dominant hockey in front of Viktor Fasth of late. They've won five of their last six games and are 7-1-2 in their last 10. If there's any team in the NHL that can top Chicago right now, it's probably Anaheim.

4. Dustin Byfuglien's back in the Winnipeg lineup. How does Claude Noel use him?

Via Arctic Ice Hockey's game preview:

Byfuglien came into the 2013 season playing some sound hockey, and at one point led the team in both TOI and points. If he's back to 100%, Claude Noel should ride his stallion hard as he's arguably been one of the best Jets thus far.

5. Can the Lightning stop the bleeding?

Remember when Tampa Bay was the league's best team? When they were scoring near five goals a game? It wasn't that long ago. But since taking the MSG ice against the Rangers on Feb. 2, the Lightning have scored just six goals in four games and they don't have a single win. What's happening? And can they get back on track against Montreal now that they're back at home?