(Photo Credit: Ben Jackson/NHLI via Getty Images)

By: Max Scudder | Follow me on Twitter @BostonBruinsy

Boston Bruins Head Coach Jim Montgomery told the media this morning that defenseman Derek Forbort and forward Trent Frederic are in for tonight’s game against the Tampa Bay Lightning at TD Garden.

Forbort has been out following an injury to his right middle finger he suffered during the Bruins’ 6-5 overtime win against Pittsburgh on November 1. Even though Forbort was projected to miss four to six weeks after having surgery, the 30-year-old defenseman will return ahead of schedule when he suits up tonight against conference rival Tampa Bay. Yesterday, Boston announced they had placed veteran blue liner Anton Stralman on waivers to clear a roster spot and cap space for Forbort’s return. Forbort is expected to be paired with Connor Clifton on the blue line.

Frederic will also return to the ice tonight after exiting last week’s 5-3 win at Amalie Arena over the Lightning. Frederic assisted with Charlie Coyle’s goal in the second period, and shortly after, Frederic suffered a shoulder injury and did not return to help his team seal the victory.

Frederic has been a grinder on the ice for the black and gold this season, registering 22 hits to complement his three goals and three assists. Frederic is projected to line up on the right side of Coyle with Taylor Hall on the left.

Although Montgomery did not announce who would start in net, Linus Ullmark is expected to dress along with Jeremy Swayman. The Bruins are looking to extend their home win streak to 13 when they face off against Tampa.