How the Bruins are motivated by Brad Marchand’s injury
Heading toward the ice with his Bruins colleagues, Brad Marchand appeared particularly short.
His already little frame was accentuated when they gave each other shoulder bumps in the locker room before the game, as he was wearing shoes and they were skating. Only his stature was diminutive. The captain of the Bruins’ leadership and demeanor remained disproportionate.
Despite not being able to play in Game 5 against the Florida Panthers, Marchad made an effort to lead even from the sidelines. In between quarters, he was in the locker room giving a pregame address. Charlie McAvoy stated that there was extra incentive to win if the series was extended so Marchand could return.
In every situation, it’s great to have him around. We are very grateful for his presence, McAvoy remarked. “Everything he has and everything that he represents to the group. Throughout the game, he was there all the time showing us love and encouragement. His importance to this team is well known. In the hopes that it would offer him an opportunity to return, we wanted to bring this back to Boston.
Sam Bennett struck Marchand in the head during the second period of Game 3, and he hasn’t played since. Game 4 and 5 were missed by him due to an unidentified upper-body injury.
Though Marchand wasn’t on the ice, the Bruins nevertheless kept him with them in spirit by hanging his No. 63 jersey in his locker.
“Watching your team struggle is not enjoyable for a professional athlete,” David Pastrnak remarked. He arrived each session and delivered a brief speech. He supported us. We wish to continue extending the series and bring him back in it.
Jim Montgomery was unsure if Marchand would return on Friday following Game 6. One more day between games might improve his prospects.
Before we believe he will be a full-time player, he needs to take certain measures, he stated. “We’ll handle things day by day.”
