The Boston Bruins may have received some good news prior to Game 2 against the Florida Panthers, as star forward Patrice Bergeron was reportedly feeling better and could potentially take the ice. After missing time with an undisclosed injury, Bergeron’s potential return could provide a much-needed boost for the Bruins as they look to even up the series. Here’s a closer look at the situation and what it could mean for Boston’s playoff hopes.
Patrice Bergeron is likely to return to the Boston Bruins for Game 2 of the Eastern Conference First Round against the Florida Panthers. Boston head coach Brad Montgomery said Bergeron was “feeling better” and “questionable for tomorrow.” The Bruins captain missed Game 1 on Monday due to an illness that has affected several players on the team. The illness spread to other players, including Jakub Lauko, who lost eight pounds because of it. Bergeron, who was replaced as top line center by Pavel Zacha, has not played since April 14 and did not participate in optional practice on Tuesday. Bergeron is a key player for the Bruins, scoring 58 points in 78 games during the regular season.
Despite Bergeron’s absence, the Bruins beat the Panthers 3-1 in Game 1. Zacha played in Bergeron’s place and was part of a top line that included Brad Marchand and Jake DeBrusk. The Bruins have depth, honed all season and bolstered with the addition of forwards Tyler Bertuzzi and Garnet Hathaway, acquired ahead of the 2023 NHL Trade Deadline. The Bruins set NHL records for wins and points in the regular season, winning the Presidents’ Trophy. Charlie McAvoy said, “We believe in one another and we believe that whoever it is, they’re going to help pull the rope.” The Bruins hope to continue their success in Game 2 against the Panthers at TD Garden.
As the Boston Bruins prepare for Game 2 against the Florida Panthers, the news of Bergeron potentially being able to play is a welcome relief for both the team and its fans. After sitting out of Game 1 due to injury, Bergeron’s return could be a game-changer for the Bruins. As one of the team’s top players, his presence on the ice not only brings skill but also a sense of leadership to the group. Bergeron’s status for the game remains uncertain, but the positive news that he’s “feeling better” suggests that his return could be sooner rather than later. Fans will have to wait and see if he’ll be able to take the ice, but knowing that he’s on the road to recovery is certainly promising.
