Why Bruins Star Brad Marchand Exited Early In Preseason Game Vs. Flyers

Given the amount of offseason surgeries Brad Marchand endured, it was easy to fear the worst when the Boston Bruins captain wasn't on the bench to start the second period Tuesday night against the Philadelphia Flyers.

But an update from the Bruins on Marchand's status quickly put to rest any concerns about the 36-year-old's health.

The Bruins announced Marchand exited the game due to illness, not injury. The Bruins added he was questionable to return to the exhibition contest, which was the first preseason game Marchand suited up in.

Marchand played just 4:12 on the ice in the opening frame and did not record a shot on net.

Marchand's training camp got off to a delayed start as it wasn't until last week that he shed his non-contact practice jersey. He revealed during captain practices in September that underwent three surgeries this offseason to repair his elbow, groin and a sports hernia issue.

It's likely the Bruins will proceed with caution when it comes to Marchand and not push him to play through sickness in a game that doesn't count. Marchand has two more chances to knock off some rust with the Bruins wrapping up their preseason slate against the Los Angeles Kings and Washington Capitals on Thursday and Saturday, respectively.

That should give Marchand plenty of time to be ready for when the Bruins open the season next Tuesday on the road against the reigning Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers.

But Marchand sure gave Bruins fans a scare against the Flyers.