Coach Claude Julien has just confirmed that Mikko Lehtonen will make his NHL debut here today. Vladimir Sobotka also will suit up.

Julien on Lehtonen: ''A highly-skilled player--this is a good chance for him to showcase himself.''

Team captain Zdeno Chara and veteran P.J. Axelsson are taking the day off. Both skated on their own this morning. It wouldn't be a surprise if Julien were to opt to rest both veterans tomorrow on Long Island, too.

Phil Kessel won't play today. The speedy winger struggled through Friday night with a stomach bug, reports Julien, and will not be able to suit up for what would have been his 70th game this season. Kessel thus far: 33-23--56.

''A tough night for Kess,'' noted Julien, ''so no sense forcing the issue.''

Julien confirmed that Game 1 of the playoffs will be at the Garden on Thursday eve. It was considered a fait accompli, but no on in the Boston organization had yet confirmed it. Still undecided: whether Game 2 will be Saturday or Sunday.

The Bruins will not practice at all on Monday.

''That's a given,'' said Julien, who also kidded that reporters would rejoice over having a day off (note to boss: didja hear that?). ''It will given our coaching staff a full day to prepare for the playoffs.

Today's lines:

Blake Wheeler--Marc Savard--Michael Ryder
Mark Recchi--Vladimir Sobotka--Chuck Kobasew
Milan Lucic--David Krejck--Mikko Lehtonen
Shawn Thornton--Stephane Yelle--Byron Bitz

Blue line:
Matt Hunwick--Denni Wideman
Aaron Ward--Steve Montador
Mark Stuart--Shane Hnidy

Today's goalie: Manny Fernandez
Tomorrow's goalie: Tim Thomas.