Jake DeBrusk back in Bruins lineup after benching, but Milan Lucic out after leaving pregame skate

Despite not having a full lineup, the Bruins gave it their all. Unfortunately, Milan Lucic was unable to play after taking a hit to his right skate in the previous game. He left the pregame skate early and did not return, needing assistance to walk off the ice.

During a pregame chat, Coach Jim Montgomery revealed that several players had minor injuries, leaving the lineup uncertain until the last minute.

Jake DeBrusk, who had been struggling to score in the previous games, played alongside Matt Poitras and Morgan Geekie on the right side. DeBrusk showed some life in his legs and had several good scoring opportunities, including a breakaway. He also contributed an assist on Poitras’s game-winning goal.

Montgomery’s message to DeBrusk regarding his one-game punishment was simple: focus on the present game and help the team win. DeBrusk handled the consequences of his actions like a professional.

DeBrusk commented, “I was just focused on tonight. I am proud to be a Bruin and proud of the standards we have here.”

Montgomery clarified that DeBrusk’s benching was not a warning to the entire team, especially the younger players. He explained that the team has certain standards, and when those standards aren’t met, there are consequences, but the team moves forward.

Patrick Brown, who took DeBrusk’s spot in the lineup in the previous game, remained in the lineup, occupying Lucic’s position on the fourth line.

Derek Forbort gets a rest

Derek Forbort, who had two assists in the previous game, was not in the lineup due to a lower body injury. Montgomery described his condition as “day to day.” Forbort had previously injured his groin during training camp but claimed to be fine after the last game.

Kevin Shattenkirk, normally paired with Forbort, returned to the lineup after sitting out the previous game. Ian Mitchell, the defenseman who replaced Shattenkirk, remained in the lineup.

Hampus Lindholm feels at home

It was another homecoming for Hampus Lindholm, who spent the first eight years of his career in Anaheim before being traded to Boston. He is still beloved by the fans at his former home ice, the Arrowhead Pond.

Lindholm said, “I’ve already been back once, so I think that’s when you really feel those little butterflies coming back. But of course, I’ve been there for so long, so many years, so of course it’s always special going there. But I hope for two big points from the boys.”

Additionally, Shattenkirk had also spent the previous three seasons with the Ducks.

Nothing complicated

With the Bruins playing their second game in less than 24 hours, Montgomery aimed to keep things simple and light. He stated, “You try not to overload them with too much information. You want them to play a straightforward game and be the first to win the puck battles.”

Jim McBride can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him @globejimmcbride.