Bruins' Matt Grzelcyk Not Expected to Be Cleared to Play in Game 5
By Jerry Trotta
Bruins defenseman Matt Grzelcyk skated in a red non-contact jersey during Boston's Wednesday morning practice at TD Garden, rejoining the team for the first time since entering the NHL's concussion protocol during Game 2 of the Stanley Cup Finals last week.
Though the news was looked upon as a minor glimmer of hope that the 25-year-old could return for Thursday's Game 5, the latest reports suggest that the former Boston University star will not be cleared for tonight's pivotal contest against St. Louis.
After speaking with Matt Grzelcyk's dad, @LynchieWCVB says its very unlikely that the #NHLBruins defenseman will play in Game 5. He has been in the concussion protocol after the hit in Game 2. pic.twitter.com/xRIk1WFBYT
— WCVB-TV Boston (@WCVB) June 6, 2019
If you had any doubts about the report, it's worth reiterating that the original source of the news was the defenseman's father. Good luck finding a more credible take.
Grzelcyk's unavailability for Game 5 now becomes an even more urgent issue after captain Zdeno Chara left the ice with a nasty-looking facial injury in Game 4 that was later diagnosed as a broken jaw.
Though Chara was seen skating on the ice earlier today, it remains to be seen if he will be cleared in time.
Going along with this, Grzelcyk's dad just told WCVB he's not expected to get cleared to play. https://t.co/3sR6hGHjry
— Bruins Stats (@bruins_stats) June 6, 2019
Expect head coach Bruce Cassidy to turn to veteran Steven Kampfer as Boston's sixth defenseman.
The injuries are just hitting the Bruins at the absolute worst possible time. The once-heavy favorites are now facing serious adversity with the series at a 2-2 deadlock, and will need every last fan at TD Garden to help spur them on for tonight's pivotal clash.