FOXBORO, Mass. — The Boston Bruins-Montreal Canadiens rivalry will be renewed Friday at Gillette Stadium, but in an unfortunate development for B’s fans, the Brad Marchand-P.K. Subban one will not.
Marchand, a longtime nemesis of Subban’s, will be unable to play in the NHL Winter Classic after the league suspended him three games for a low hit on Ottawa Senators defenseman Mark Borowiecki.
Losing Marchand was a significant blow to a Bruins team already missing injured center David Krejci, and one that surely improved the Canadiens’ chances of earning a win in their first Winter Classic appearance. But given their extensive history together, Subban said he’s disappointed the B’s winger won’t be out there.
“Well, I know Brad’s a big part of their team, so I’m sure they’re going to miss him,” the Montreal defenseman told reporters. “As far as I’m concerned, I know there is a rivalry between the Montreal Canadiens and Boston Bruins. I don’t ever think of playing a specific player. But obviously with the history of us playing against each other, going back to World Juniors, playing with each other and against each other in the playoffs and during the regular season, yeah, there’s been some heated battles.
“But that’s just a part of the game. There are many players I can probably think of in the league that I’ve had heated battles against. But it’s unfortunate he’s not playing (Friday).”
While the Bruins will be down two key players for the outdoor showcase, the Canadiens will be getting one back. The team announced Thursday that forward Brendan Gallagher, who has missed the last 17 games with a hand injury, will make his return to action against Boston.
Gallagher has nine goals and 10 assists in 22 games this season.
Thumbnail photo via Eric Bolte/USA TODAY Sports Images
