Bruins: Multiple forwards out, Jack Studnicka to be called up

It’s fair to say that the injury bug is now hitting the Boston Bruins hard.

Head coach Bruce Cassidy announced today that both Nick Foligno and Anton Blidh will be out for Sunday’s contest against the San Jose Sharks. Furthermore, Craig Smith is questionable to play. Due to all of this, Cassidy also noted that Jack Studnicka is expected to be called up.

The Bruins were without Foligno for Friday night’s game against the Sabres, so his injury is still bothering him. Blidh left the game against Buffalo early as well, so it’s not too surprising to hear he’s out. Smith did not participate in a team practice earlier this week, so perhaps the Bruins could end up deciding that it’s best for the winger to sit out next game, too.

With the B’s having multiple injuries, it does open the door for Studnicka to show the team what he’s capable of. Every fan knows that he had a fantastic preseason and did everything right. In four games, he scored two goals and recorded four points. However, with the team having a good amount of depth upfront, they elected to have him play in Providence so he would get meaningful ice time. Now the Bruins seem to have no choice but to play at the NHL level.

This is a rough time for the Bruins to have so many injuries. Although the San Jose Sharks have had their struggles over the last few seasons, they have been very hot to start the season. They currently sport a 4-0-0 record and just defeated the Toronto Maple Leafs by a 5-3 score. It will be interesting to see how they handle them with so many forwards out. Even if Smith ends up playing, one has to remember Curtis Lazar is still injured, too.

It will be interesting to witness how Studnicka performs for the team when called upon. The expected lines for Sunday’s game have yet to be released, but there is a chance that he could end up at right wing.

Lastly, here’s to hoping Foligno and Blidh will be able to return soon and that Smith is deemed fit enough to play.