BOSTON — Nathan Horton scored a tie-breaking goal early in the second period, Tim Thomas stopped 31 shots, and the Boston Bruins won their regular-season home finale 3-1 over the Ottawa Senators today.

It was the Bruins’ seventh win in 10 games and left them in contention for the Eastern Conference’s second seed with Pittsburgh and Philadelphia. Boston must win its regular-season finale Sunday in New Jersey to have a chance.

The Senators missed the playoffs for the second time in three seasons.

Daniel Paille and Rich Peverley had Boston’s other goals and the Bruins completed the season series 5-1 against Ottawa.

Bobby Butler scored for the Senators and Curtis McElhinney had 26 saves.