Bruins

Brad Marchand a ‘game-time decision’ for Game 6, but his mom has a better update

"He's ready for a big win tonight for the Bruins, and he's excited to get out there and extend this series."

Brad Marchand could draw back into the lineup on Friday after missing the last two games. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)

May 17, 2024

The Bruins could have their captain back on Friday night in yet another do-or-die game against the Florida Panthers.

After missing the last two games following a sucker punch from Panthers forward Sam Bennett, Brad Marchand is officially a “game-time decision” for the Bruins in Game 6 at TD Garden, according to Jim Montgomery.

Marchand has now skated for two straight days, with the 36-year-old winger a full participant during Thursday’s practice at Warrior Ice Arena before hitting the frozen sheet at TD Garden for Friday’s optional morning skate.

Montgomery’s vague comments surrounding Marchand’s availability don’t exactly come as much of a surprise as most NHL bench bosses tend to not disclose recovery timelines, starting goalies, and other lineup changes ahead of puck drop during the postseason.

But speaking to WHDH on Friday morning, Marchand’s mother, Lynn, offered a more positive update on her son’s availability for Game 6.

On Just One Station 7news with the inside scoop on whether or not injured Bruins captain Brad Marchand will be playing tonight in game 6 and who knows the answer…how ‘bout Lynn his mom #7News pic.twitter.com/GDIVk4LPj7
— Steve Cooper (@scooperon7) May 17, 2024

“He’s doing good,” Lynn Marchand told 7 News’ Steve Cooper. “He’s good, he’s pumped. He’s ready for a big win tonight for the Bruins and he’s excited to get out there and extend this series.”

Marchand’s potential return would provide a major lift to a Bruins team looking to overcome a 3-1 series deficit for the first time in franchise history. Boston is 0-25 in best-of-seven series after falling into a 3-1 hole.

Marchand’s talents on the ice have been missed over the last two games. Not only has he tallied 10 points in 10 playoff games this spring, but his absence has also hindered a Bruins’ power play that has only cashed in on just one of its 14 opportunities against the Panthers during this series.

But beyond his impact on the scoresheet, Marchand’s role as Boston’s emotional leader will be leaned on as the Bruins try to send this series back to Florida for a decisive Game 7.

“He’s our leader, obviously,” Jake DeBrusk said of Marchand’s potential return. “And if he does [play], I think that it just brings a vocal guy back on the bench. Obviously, his skill set speaks for itself.

“I think it’s one of those things where he does a lot of things differently for the team, when it comes to special teams and even five-and-five, so to add back a really quality player like that and a leader obviously within our team, I think only helps your group.”