Unfortunately for the Bruins, injuries and sicknesses have created a number of lineup questions ahead of Boston’s playoff opener against the Florida Panthers on Monday night at TD Garden.
Bruins head coach Jim Montgomery acknowledged just that while meeting with reporters after the team’s optional skate Monday morning, per multiple reports.
Montgomery shared both captain Patrice Bergeron and goaltender Linus Ullmark are game-time decisions. Fellow goaltender Jeremy Swayman, who missed practice Sunday, took part in optional skate Monday. The Bruins also announced Monday morning they recalled goaltender Brandon Bussi as an emergency third goaltender.
Montgomery had other positive news, however, as he shared veteran David Krejci and defenseman Derek Forbort will play in Game 1. Forward Nick Foligno is a “strong possibility” to return to the lineup, as well.
For what it’s worth, Brad Marchand didn’t seem overly concerned about Bergeron when he was asked about the first-line center one day ago. Marchand hinted Bergeron was under the weather but said he expected him to play in Boston’s postseason opener.
Puck drop for Game 1 between the Bruins and Panthers is set for Monday night at 7:30 p.m. ET, and you can watch it on NESN, with pregame coverage beginning at 6 p.m. ET.
