Boston Bruins captain Brad Marchand is day-to-day ahead of Sunday’s Game 4 with an upper-body injury following a controversial hit from Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett in the first period of Game 3 on Friday night. Marchand returned for a portion of the Bruins’ 6-2 loss, but he didn’t play at all in the third period.
Just a few minutes into Game 3, Bennett laid a big hit on Marchand in the neutral zone that sent the Boston captain into the boards. Marchand was able to get up on his own, but labored to do so and didn’t play at all in the third period.
Bennett’s hit has drawn some criticism because it appears as though he might have extended his fist and punched Marchand in the process. There’s no definitive angle on the hit, but Bennett was not penalized at the time.
Marchand didn’t practice on Saturday morning, as Bruins head coach Jim Montgomery discussed his status with reporters while also implying there was clear intent to injure from Bennett.
“In real time, my eyes weren’t on there because the puck had left the area,” Montgomery said. “My eyes weren’t on the exact play, but having seen it, there’s a history there with Bennett. Good, hard player, but there’s clearly evidence of what went on. People can say it’s unintentional, but we have our view of it.”
The Bruins will have another day to make a decision on Marchand ahead of Game 4 in Boston. Marchand, who won a Stanley Cup with Boston in 2011, has 10 points in 10 games this postseason. If Marchand can’t go, that will only add more of the offensive burden to the shoulders of star forward David Pastrnak.
Boston Bruins captain Brad Marchand is currently listed as day-to-day with an injury following a hit from Florida Panthers forward Sam Bennett in Game 3 of their first-round playoff series. The incident occurred in the second period when Bennett delivered a high hit to Marchand, causing him to fall to the ice and leave the game.
Marchand, who is known for his gritty style of play and offensive prowess, is a key player for the Bruins and his absence could have a significant impact on the team’s performance in the playoffs. The 33-year-old forward has been a consistent point producer for Boston over the years and his leadership on and off the ice is invaluable to the team.
The hit from Bennett has sparked controversy among fans and analysts, with many questioning whether it was a clean hit or if it crossed the line into dangerous territory. The NHL Department of Player Safety is reportedly reviewing the incident to determine if any disciplinary action is warranted.
In the meantime, the Bruins will have to adjust their lineup and game plan without their captain in the lineup. Head coach Bruce Cassidy will need to rely on other players to step up and fill the void left by Marchand’s absence. This could be an opportunity for younger players or depth forwards to showcase their skills and make a positive impact on the team.
As for Marchand, his health and recovery will be a top priority for the Bruins’ medical staff. It remains to be seen how long he will be sidelined with this injury and when he will be able to return to action. In the meantime, fans will have to wait anxiously for updates on his condition and hope for a speedy recovery for their beloved captain.
