The streaking Boston Bruins could receive a massive boost to their lineup Tuesday when they visit the New York Islanders as David Pastrnak is on the verge of returning from a thumb injury.
Bruins head coach Bruce Cassidy told reporters after his team’s morning skate the star winger has been cleared medically after undergoing surgery five weeks ago.
Despite missing the past 16 games, Pastrnak remains tied with Brad Marchand for the team lead in goals. Pastrnak’s 31 goals in 56 contests has him sitting seventh in the league in goals per game.
Cassidy isn’t worried about the 22-year-old’s conditioning, since he’s been able to skate the entire time he’s been out, but shaking off rust is always a potential concern when a player has missed as much time as Pastrnak.
“For him, it’s the comfort level of he’s wearing a brace, how does it affect his puck handling?” Cassidy said. “Where’s his conditioning at? We think it’s good. It’s always been good. So I suspect we’ll have to keep an eye on his shift length maybe more than his actual minutes. That’s the toughest part I’ve found, if you empty the tank early, it’s tough to get your legs back. Having said all that, we will keep an eye on it. But if he’s up to the task and has his legs and is recovering well, then it’s game on for him.”
The Bruins managed to go 12-3-1 without Pastrnak, who will assume his spot on the right wing beside Patrice Bergeron and Marchand.
Defenceman Torey Krug, who has missed the past two games with a concussion, wore a red non-contact jersey during the morning skate and Cassidy said he is getting close to being able to return.
[relatedlinks]
