The backups had their chance to show their stuff. Now it’s Tuukka’s turn.
After sitting out the Boston Bruins’ first four preseason games, Tuukka Rask will start in net Monday night as the Bruins host the Detroit Red Wings at TD Garden.
Rask’s spot atop the B’s goaltending depth chart long has been solidified, allowing the team to use its exhibition slate as a proving ground for the four netminders vying to be his No. 2. Two of those backup candidates — Malcolm Subban and Zane McIntyre — were cut Sunday, leaving Jeremy Smith and Jonas Gustavsson to compete for the job.
Gustavsson, who returned to the team over the weekend after leaving to attend the birth of his daughter, will back up Rask on Monday night.
Unlike in earlier preseason games, Boston’s lineup against Detroit will feature a great deal of players who are expected to make the team’s final roster. A few notable exceptions: Austin Cznarik will center the Bruins’ second line in place of David Krejci, and left wing Frank Vatrano will skate on the third line — the spot Brett Connolly likely will occupy once the regular season begins.
Defenseman Adam McQuaid, a lock to make the team, also was given the night off.
Here’s a full rundown of Monday’s expected lines and pairings, as reported by the team:
Brad Marchand —Â Patrice Bergeron —Â Loui Eriksson
Matt Beleskey —Â Austin Czarnik —Â David Pastrnak
Frank Vatrano —Â Ryan Spooner —Â Jimmy Hayes
Chris Kelly —Â Joonas Kemppainen —Â Max Talbot
Linus Arnesson —Â Kevan Miller
Torey Krug —Â Zach Trotman
Joe Morrow —Â Colin Miller
Tuukka Rask
Jonas Gustavsson
Thumbnail photo via Bob DeChiara/USA TODAY Sports Images
