The Boston Bruins enjoyed a thrilling Black Friday victory over the New York Rangers, but not everything was great for the Bruins. Brad Marchand missed some time early in the third period because of concussion-like symptoms.
Marchand passed all his tests and returned to the game, and he even was frustrated to be removed from the game in the first place.
That said, we always need to take head injuries seriously, so that’s why Marchand’s short absence was concerning.
Things became more concerning on Saturday morning when Marchand missed practice. Coach Bruce Cassidy said Marchand has flu-like symptoms, and it seems like he’ll be ready to go Sunday night against Montreal.
However, the timing seems a little odd given that Marchand missed time the day before against the Rangers. Could his absence from practice be at all related?
If it is, then the Bruins certainly do their due diligence to make sure Marchand is totally healthy. Even if there’s nothing to worry about, it makes sense for Boston to give Marchand some extra rest.
The Bruins are in the middle of a tough stretch here, so there isn’t a ton of time for postgame recovery. Veterans like Marchand, regardless of injuries, probably need some time off anyway.
Nonetheless, since Marchand missed practice the day after the concussion spotters pulled him, how can we as Bruins fans not worry even a little?
Marchand is on an incredible run for the Bruins right now. He has 43 points in 26 games, and he emerged as the best all-around winger in the NHL.
Marchand’s play and production are some of the biggest reasons why the Bruins are at the top of the league right now. Without him in the lineup, the Bruins would certainly struggle.
That alone is reason enough to worry even a little about Marchand’s health. The Bruins need him on the ice and in the lineup, now and in the future.
All signs point to Marchand’s presence in the lineup in the next game against Montreal. We’ll see then if he’s truly healthy and ready to lead this team over the next few games.