Major key-stars comeback to the Boston Bruins lineup didn’t last long, as the rugged forward was placed on injured reserve, throwing another wrench into the team’s ever-evolving roster. He had just returned from concussion protocol, was unable to finish Monday’s game against San Jose, leaving fans wondering about his long-term availability.
His season has been a gritty one, tallying four goals and nine assists in 45 games while bringing physicality to the ice. He had recently missed two games after entering concussion protocol but made his return Saturday against Ottawa. Unfortunately, his absence during the third period on Monday signaled trouble, and his placement on IR further disrupts Boston’s depth up front.
To fill the void, the Bruins called up Patrick Brown and Max Jones from their AHL affiliate in Providence. Brown, the 32-year-old captain of Providence, has been a steady force in the minors with nine goals and 16 assists for 25 points in 37 games. He’s appeared in just one NHL game this season but brings experience with 10 goals and 15 assists in 150 career games.
Max Jones, a 26-year-old power forward, began the season in Boston but has spent most of the year with Providence, where he’s posted eight goals and three assists in 26 games. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 222 pounds, Jones offers size and physicality that could complement Boston’s style of play. Over his NHL career, largely with the Anaheim Ducks, Jones has recorded 31 goals and 31 assists in 262 games.
With the roster in flux, Boston faces critical decisions as they prepare for Wednesday’s game in New Jersey. Kastelic’s absence leaves a noticeable gap, but the Bruins hope their latest call-ups can step up and deliver at the NHL level.
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