An unexpected change to the Bruins’ lineup occurred about 20 minutes before Saturday night’s matchup against the Vancouver Canucks.
After Charlie McAvoy (undisclosed), Kevan Miller (hand) and Ryan Donato (healthy scratch) did not appear in Boston’s lineup, the team announced it would be without third-line center David Backes.
David Backes is not on the ice for warmups. #NHLBruins
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) October 21, 2018
Backes appeared to be a go earlier today, as Bruce Cassidy said the veteran would center the third line with Joakim Nordstrom and Anders Bjork manning the two wings.
The good news? It appears the 34-year-old isn’t injured, but rather is just under the weather.
UPDATE: David Backes (not feeling well) will not play in tonight's game.
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) October 21, 2018
Nordstrom now will center the third line with Donato being inserted on the left wing side.