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The Boston Bruins got encouraging injury updates regarding two of their top stars who have been out of the lineup lately.
The Boston Bruins got a much-needed dose of good news on Monday. Boston got a fantastic injury update regarding top blueliner Charlie McAvoy.
The Bruins’ number-one defenseman hasn’t played since blocking a shot on November 15. However, McAvoy could be nearing a return soon. According to Reuters, McAvoy could be nearing a return to the ice during the Bruins’ upcoming road trip.
Reuters reported that McAvoy, who had facial surgery to repair the damage from the shot, has lost about 20 pounds. The weight loss has been due to a mostly liquid diet. But that hasn’t stopped the 27-year-old from staying optimistic.
Charlie McAvoy is traveling with the Bruins on their upcoming road trip and hopes to play at some point during it.
McAvoy hasn’t played since getting hit in the face with a slapshot on November 15th
McAvoy stated, per Reuters:
“Getting it back. One day at a time, but every day I feel better so keep doing that.”
Meanwhile, Boston’s other big star, David Pastrnak, returned to practice on Monday. He was on the ice in a non-contact sweater. Pastrnak has been out since November 26, but could be back as soon as this week.
The Bruins will kick off a three-game road trip with a visit to St. Louis. Boston will then face the Winnipeg Jets and the Minnesota Wild. The club will head back to Boston on December 16 to face the Utah Mammoth.
Pastrnak Feeling Great to Be Back on the Ice
David Pastrnak made his feelings known about getting back on the ice. He’s been one of the most durable players on the Bruins’ roster over the last few seasons. While this year injuries have set him back, he’s not dwelling on that. Instead, the Czech star is looking forward to getting back. He stated:
“I’m happy I was back out there today. Felt great. See how I feel tomorrow. I’ve been pretty fortunate the last couple years, so just want to get back out there.”
That attitude shows how fiercely competitive Pastrnak is. The Bruins will be lucky to get him back at full strength. He has carried the team at various points throughout his career. So, that’s something the team cannot go without if they are to get back to the postseason.
Bruins Looking to Keep Doing What They’re Doing
The Bruins have been playing well despite missing their top stars. The team has been getting key contributions throughout the lineup. In particular, the Bruins’ depth players have stepped up.
That situation prompted coach Marco Sturm to declare:
“We just have to make sure nothing will change. I think we’ve been very, very good structure-wise for a bit and that’s going to be the biggest thing, the guys who are coming back, they have to find their way back in the lineup, playing the same way, just exactly the way they finished. I think that’s all.”
The change this season has been evident. After missing the playoffs last season, the Bruins find themselves tied with the Tampa Bay Lightning for the top spot in the Atlantic Division. Boston is riding a two-game winning streak and will be looking to improve on its pedestrian 5-5-0 mark in its last 10 games.
With Pastrnak and McAvoy returning, the team is due for a huge boost.
Nestor Quixtan Seasoned NHL analyst and baseball writer focused on covering clubs across each league with news, analysis, and insights. Originally from Toronto, Canada, Nestor’s singular experiences and background have enabled him to bring a different take on the sports world as a whole. Nestor’s fondness for baseball and hockey set the tone for his love and passion for writing about sports. More about Nestor Quixtan
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