The Boston Bruins are looking to even up the series against the Carolina Hurricanes on Sunday, but they'll be down a key player for the clash. The Bruins announced Sunday, less than an hour before puck drop, that star defenseman Charlie McAvoy has entered the NHL's COVID-19 protocols and will be unavailable to play in Game 4.
UPDATE: Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy has been placed in NHL COVID-19 protocol and will not be available for today’s game.
— Boston Bruins (@NHLBruins) May 8, 2022
This is obviously a huge blow for the Bruins, made worse by the fact that the designation of McAvoy to the COVID list wasn't handed down until Sunday morning. McAvoy has been a key player for Boston all year long and has left his mark on the series against the Hurricanes. He's played physically in every match, recording 11 hits over the last two games. Through three games in the first-round matchup, McAvoy registered two points, both coming off of assists.
He's one of the leading defenseman in Boston's setup, averaging over 25 minutes per night during the series against Carolina. Not having him available will be a brutal blow for the Bruins' penalty kill, as well as their overall defensive output.
On the year, McAvoy featured in 78 games, scoring 10 goals and providing 46 assists. His absence will be a major loss for Boston, who will look to contain the deep Hurricanes' offense without one of their top defenders.
With McAvoy out for Sunday's game, the Bruins' top defensive line will likely consist of Matt Grzelcyk and Brandon Carlo. Derek Forbort and Connor Clifton are expected to handle second-line defensive duties for Boston, in what is a must-win Game 4. A loss at home on Sunday against the Canes would see the Bruins fall to 3-1 in the series before they return to Carolina for Game 5.
Follow Us
Subscribe