Bruins Captain Brad Marchand Sidelined with Injury: Game 4 Uncertain
Boston Bruins captain Brad Marchand will not be playing in Game 4 of the team’s playoff series due to an upper-body injury. The severity of the injury is unknown, and Marchand is currently listed as day to day. Coach Jim Montgomery has not confirmed whether Marchand suffered a concussion.
The injury occurred during a first-period collision in Game 3 against the opposing team, the Calgary Flames. Slow-motion video replay shows Flames player Sam Bennett punching Marchand in the head with his right hand. Marchand continued to play for two periods but did not return for the third.
The incident has caused frustration among the Bruins players. Forward Trent Frederic expressed his displeasure, stating, “I think it pisses off everyone… There’s some individuals, obviously, that make guys more frustrated, more mad.” Despite the frustration, the team must stay focused on their goal of tying the series at 2-2.
Bennett was not penalized for the play and did not face any additional disciplinary action. Coach Montgomery did not classify the punch as dirty but rather as a player who plays on the edge. He acknowledged that Bennett knew what he was doing and loaded up for the punch.
The Bruins did not retaliate during the game but acknowledged their failure to do so. Montgomery took responsibility for not responding to the incident, stating, “I feel it’s my fault that we didn’t retaliate to some degree.” However, he also noted that they were trying to get back in the game and were focused on scoring goals.
There is a possibility that the Bruins may seek retaliation in Game 4 against Bennett. However, it is unclear whether Bennett will be given the green light to respond if challenged. In a previous game, Bruins player David Pastrnak accepted an invitation to fight from Flames player Matthew Tkachuk.
Frederic acknowledged the potential for retaliation but emphasized the need to be smart about it, considering the series is currently 2-1. The Bruins want to limit penalties and find a strategic way to address the incident.
As the Bruins prepare for Game 4, Marchand’s absence will be felt on the ice. His leadership and offensive contributions will be missed, and the team will need to rally together to fill the void left by their captain. The outcome of Game 4 will be crucial for both teams as they battle for control of the series.
In conclusion, Marchand’s injury has added a new layer of intensity to the Bruins’ playoff series against the Flames. The incident involving Sam Bennett’s punch has sparked frustration among the Bruins players, and they now face the challenge of responding in a strategic manner. Game 4 will be a pivotal moment for both teams as they continue to fight for victory.