It looks like David Backes will be rewarded for his play Thursday night in the Boston Bruins’ 4-1 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets in Game 4 of the teams’ second-round Stanley Cup playoff series.
Bruins coach Bruce Cassidy indicated Friday that Backes most likely will remain in Boston’s lineup Saturday night for a crucial Game 5 at TD Garden.
Cassidy said that Backes will likely play again tomorrow. “He did his job well.”
— Conor Ryan (@ConorRyan_93) May 3, 2019
Backes assisted on Sean Kuraly’s second goal of the playoffs to give the Bruins an important 3-1 lead in the third period of Game 4 in Columbus. The Bruins desperately needed that tally, and Backes provided the spark that lit the fire.
Playoff Sean. It's a real thing.@kurals9 | #KURALEAP pic.twitter.com/8nQ5RhCBdb
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) May 3, 2019
Backes did more than just assist on the Bruins’ third goal, though. He provided a strong physical presence throughout the game, even after taking a Dean Kukan elbow to the head.
Cassidy still could change his mind regarding the Bruins’ Game 5 lineup, obviously. But if Backes dresses again, it could be another physical game in Boston.