Opening roster begins to take shape
With one coherent unit skating at the same time yesterday, the Bruins roster is finally starting to take shape.
A group closely resembling the team that will suit up against Washington next week practiced together for the first time.
For some, it was a chance to play with potential linemates with the idea they may be grouped together when the games begin for real.
For others, it was an opportunity to show they’re worthy to survive the next round of cuts.
Prior to the Garden workout, the B’s waived Anton Blidh, Colby Cave, Cody Goloubef, Mark McNeill and Jordan Szwarz. Connor Clifton, Karson Kuhlman and Jeremy Lauzon were sent to AHL Providence, leaving the roster at 33.
Nearly the entire forward group that could play on opening night, minus the injured Patrice Bergeron and Sean Kuraly, had a shot to build some chemistry.
Several centers looking to make an impact and earn a spot haven’t played themselves out of a chance, but the arrival of Daniel Winnik has made the decision more difficult.
Jack Studnicka and Jakob Forsbacka Karlsson took turns on the top line with Brad Marchand and David Pastrnak while Trent Frederic centered Peter Cehlarik, who enjoyed a breakout game in Philadelphia Monday night, and David Backes.
“It’s nice to have a smaller group and a lot more of the guys out there,” Marchand said. “It’s good to start getting comfortable with each other a little bit more. It means we’re getting close to the season.”
The mixing and matching will continue until the Oct. 3 opener, especially with the possibility of Bergeron and Kuraly not getting into an exhibition contest.
But, even with that chance, the picture of who will be in the opening-night lineup is becoming clearer.
“It’s different in camp, because you’re changing guys a lot,” Marchand said. “A lot of the time you have a new player on your line each game. But when you’re starting with new guys on the line, sometimes it’s nice to have a fresh start, it gives you a chance to get to know a guy better too because you have better communication.
“You’re always trying to work on something or trying to figure something out. It can be good if you have quick chemistry.”
Tuukka home sick
Goalie Tuukka Rask didn’t skate yesterday after he was told to stay home while dealing with the flu. He is still projected to start on Saturday in the preseason finale against the Flyers.
Jaroslav Halak tonight against Wings. will start the Red
Early arrivals
Bergeron, Kuraly and Ryan Fitzgerald all skated before practice. Joakim Nordstrom and Jakub Lauko still have not been cleared to skate.
Torey Krug and Noel Acciari, who had maintenance days on Monday, will be in the lineup tonight at the Garden.
Urho Vaakanainen, Lee Stempniak and Winnik were given maintenance days yesterday but will play against the Red Wings.