Boston Bruins Reveal Unfortunate Timeline For Return Of Captain

The heart of the Boston Bruins, captain Patrice Bergeron, has been missed badly by the team in the first two games of their series with the Florida Panthers. Unfortunately for them, they will have to make do without him for another few games, as per head coach Jim Montgomery. 

Patrice Bergeron is back in Boston. Jim Montgomery said he's likely for Game 5.

— Fluto Shinzawa (@FlutoShinzawa) April 21, 2023

Bergeron now isn't expected back until "likely" Game Five of the series currently tied 1-1. The 37-year-old veteran didn't travel to Florida after missing the first two games following an upper-body injury in the regular season finale. That, of course, has sparked a controversy as to why such an important player was suited up for such a meaningless game. That talk has only been exacerbated with today's news. 

Montgomery on Bergeron playing in Montreal: no reservations with what we did.

Called it "a well-thought-out plan."

"Life happens. Tweaked something in that last game," and even with hindsight, they'd go the same route again.

— Matt Porter (@mattyports) April 21, 2023

Montgomery shrugged off the "load management" question, saying "Life happens. (Bergeron) tweaked something in that last game." Then Montgomery doubled down and said that even with hindsight, they'd do the same thing again.

The 19-year veteran didn't display many signs of slowing down this season, as he recorded 27 goals and 58 points in 78 games for the B's, helping lead them to a record-breaking season of 65 wins and 135 points. 

It appears, from the morning line rushes, that Charlie Coyle will be occupying Bergy's spot on a line with Brad Marchand and Trent Frederic for Boston in Game Three Friday night. 

Photo: Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports