Bruins Forward David Backes Elevated To Top Line After Avoiding Punishment

The Boston Bruins will need forward David Backes when they play the Tampa Bay Lightning on Saturday.

After a hit Thursday on Florida Panthers winger Vincent Trocheck that resulted in Backes being ejected, the league determined that the incorrect call was made and that he did not need to be suspended, something that otherwise is mandated for a player receiving a match penalty.

And with the Bruins contending with a slew of injuries, the 33-year-old will slide into the center of the top line between Brad Marchand and David Pastrnak.

For more on Backes, check out the “Bruins Breakaway Live” video above, presented by Geico.