BOSTON — Bruins winger Brett Connolly skated with his teammates Thursday for the first time since suffering a fractured finger in his right hand soon after being acquired via trade from the Tampa Bay Lightning on March 2.
“Obviously, it’s been a while since I’ve skated, good to get out there with the guys and feel the puck again and be in that atmosphere,” Connolly said. “It was a good first step (Thursday).
“It’s encouraging, it’s been three weeks now, we’re trying to transition into getting me on the ice and in shape. It’s a step in the right direction.”
One of the main goals in any recovery is maintain a high level of conditioning while also rehabbing the injury. Connolly doesn’t think his conditioning will be much of an issue when he returns to the lineup.
“I’ve had a couple weeks to be in the gym and on the ice with (Bruins strength coach John Whitesides). I felt really good out there (Thursday). I think, for me, the only real issue I really have is my timing. I think my conditioning will be fine, it’s just getting my timing back and feeling the play a little bit on the ice. It’s something I’ll have to get used to, but after the first few shifts in my first game, I’ll be back.”
The Bruins have just nine games remaining in the regular season and sit one point behind the Ottawa Senators for the last wild-card playoff spot in the Eastern Conference. Boston is averaging only 1.8 goals scored during its five-game losing skid, so adding Connolly’s offensive skill to the lineup certainly would be a boost.
“I hope so,” Connolly said when asked about the possibility of coming back before the regular season concludes. “Again, I’m not too sure yet. I’m getting closer, so I’m expecting to be back a few games before the regular season (ends), so we’ll see.”
Thumbnail photo via Kim Klement/USA TODAY Sports Images
