Jun 24, 2013; Boston, MA, USA; Boston Bruins center Patrice Bergeron (37) and center David Krejci (46) stretch before game six of the 2013 Stanley Cup Final against the Chicago Blackhawks at TD Garden. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
The Bruins are going to go back to basics in tonight’s match against the Detroit Red Wings. They’ll need to go back to their defensive minded, two-way hockey. That sort of effort was lacking in Thursday night’s 8-2 pummeling at the TD Garden. They’ll bring a new attitude to their fourth pre-season game, and they’ll bring someone else as well.
Patrice Bergeron will be joining the lineup for his first preseason game. This fact alone should make Bruins Nation thrilled and relieved. Even Coach Julien got in on the act. “Yeah, Bergy’s going to play tomorrow,” B’s Head Coach Claude Julien said to the media after yesterday’s practice. “Who’s got the tweets going?”
Patrice Bergeron and Gregory Campbell both sustained serious injuries during last year’s post-season and it was important not to rush either of them back on the ice. (Campbell made his return on Thursday.) They spent additional time working on one-on-one battles Tuesday. They were in constant communication with the trainers and doctors. So, it looks like everyone has given him the green light, and it will be a most welcome addition to the team.
“Playing games is always the answer you need and that’s the only way you can feel better, feel more comfortable – in your game shape,” offered Bergeron earlier in the week. “The game is always the last and final answer; you need some games to feel better.”
Bergeron will be playing on his accustomed line, with Brad Marchand and Loui Eriksson on his wings. Now, we’re not expecting a hat trick or anything crazy tonight. We’re just going to be thrilled to see him in the jersey skating for Boston.
Brad Marchand is as excited as the rest of us to see him back. It’ll be the first time he’s gotten to skate with him for a match. “Yeah, it’s definitely a lot different. He’s such a big asset to our team and sometimes when he’s not out there with me a I do feel a little lost,” said Marchand. “I’m so used to playing with him. But you realize all the little things he does on the ice that makes him such a good player. You definitely miss him every second he’s not out there.”
Well, we’ve all missed him too. Welcome back # 37.