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Noah Dobson Set to Return for Islanders vs. Bruins: What to Expect

The New York Islanders are getting a much-needed shot in the arm just in time for a big game against the Boston Bruins. Assuming all goes well, Noah Dobson will be back in the lineup Thursday night after being on long-term injured reserve. Coach Patrick Roy said so after practice Wednesday.

With the Islanders clinging to playoff life, Dobson’s return couldn’t have come at a better time. But will it be enough?

Dobson’s Back: A Boost for the Blue Line

What We Know

After weeks of rehab and practice, Noah Dobson is ready to go. He skated with Adam Pelech Wednesday, while Ryan Pulock was with Adam Boqvist. The top pairing of Alexander Romanov and Tony DeAngelo remained the same.

Roy isn’t nervous about Dobson’s insertion into the lineup. “He’s been working hard in practice so I’m not worried. I just want to see him control the puck, jump in the rush, defend well. Do the things he’s been doing since he’s been here.”

The Impact of His Injury

Dobson’s absence has been felt on both sides of the ice. He’s an offensive defenseman and his point production had slowed earlier this season before he was injured on Martin Luther King Jr. Day in a game against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Dobson hasn’t had many injuries in recent years but this one came at a tough time for the Islanders who have been inconsistent. His return adds this to a defense that has been shaky in his absence.

Lineup Changes Ahead of Bruins Game

If Dobson returns, Scott Perunovich is going to be out of the lineup. Perunovich had a tough night against the Rangers on Tuesday, minus-4 in the 5-1 loss. That was a big reminder of how the Islanders have struggled without Dobson.

Hudson Fasching Also Back

In addition to Dobson, forward Hudson Fasching is expected to be back in the lineup on Thursday. Fasching has been out since he got hurt in the overtime win against the Bruins on January 5. His return could be a boost to a 4th line that got destroyed against the Rangers.

Coach Roy wants energy from Fasching and his linemates Kyle MacLean and Marc Gatcomb. “We want energy. That’s what we’re looking for,” Roy said. “That line needs to go out there, finish their checks, show some physicality. That’s what we want. That’s it.”

A Must-Win Game Against the Bruins

The Islanders are 7 points out of a playoff spot so this is a must win if they want to stay in it. While Dobson’s return is good timing it may not be enough to save their season. But having him on the ice gives them a shot against one of the toughest teams in the league.

This one is big for the Islanders as their 11-3-0 stretch started with a OT win over the Bruins on January 5 — the same game Fasching was injured. Getting that momentum back could turn their season around.

FAQs About Noah Dobson’s Return

When is Noah Dobson returning?

Noah Dobson is expected to return to the Islanders’ lineup on Thursday, February 27, 2025, against the Boston Bruins.

Why is Noah Dobson’s return important?

Dobson provides offensive firepower from the blue line and stabilizes a defense that has struggled without him. His return comes at a critical time as the Islanders fight to stay in playoff contention.

Who will sit out if Noah Dobson plays?

If Dobson returns, Scott Perunovich is expected to come out of the lineup after a poor performance against the Rangers.

Is Hudson Fasching also returning?

Yes, Hudson Fasching is likely to reenter the lineup on Thursday, marking his first game in nearly two months after being injured on January 5.

February 27, 2025
Boston Bruins Dealt 2 Brutal Injury Blows in Season-Altering Update

The Boston Bruins’ playoff hopes just got a whole lot harder. With defenseman Charlie McAvoy and Hampus Lindholm out due to injury, the team is in trouble defensively. GM Don Sweeney gave updates on both players and not good news for Bruins fans.

Hampus Lindholm’s Season Done

Sweeney said Sunday that Hampus Lindholm is “unlikely” to return this season after fracturing his patella (kneecap). Lindholm suffered the injury blocking a shot in November and had surgery shortly after. He’s scheduled for a follow up next week which will end his season.

Before the injury Lindholm was playing big minutes (20:51 per game) and had 7 points in 17 games. His absence is a huge hole on the blue line especially given his experience and defensive reliability.

Charlie McAvoy’s Uncertain Future

Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy is out of the lineup with no timeline for return. McAvoy hurt his shoulder playing for Team USA at the 4 Nations Face-Off tournament and played another game after the injury. The Bruins were not happy with how Team USA managed the situation.

To make matters worse, McAvoy was in the hospital for an infection recently. Sweeney wouldn’t elaborate but said McAvoy’s timeline is still uncertain. Before the injury McAvoy was averaging 23:40 minutes of ice time per game and 26 points in 48 games this season.

https://twitter.com/BDCSports/status/1893747918022029451

Impact on the Boston Bruins’ Playoff Hopes

Losing Lindholm and McAvoy is a huge hit to the Bruins’ playoff chances. Those two defensemen were 1st and 2nd on the team in ice time. Who’s going to fill the void?

As of now the Bruins are 4th in the Eastern Conference wild-card race, one point behind the Ottawa Senators and Columbus Blue Jackets for the last playoff spot. But the Bruins have played one more game than the teams around them so it’s even tougher.

FAQs About the Boston Bruins’ Injury Crisis

Is Hampus Lindholm playing this season?

No, he’s “out” after fracturing his patella. He’ll have a follow up procedure next week which will end his season.

When is Charlie McAvoy back?

No timeline. He’s still in the hospital due to an infection from his shoulder injury at the 4 Nations Face-Off.

How important are McAvoy and Lindholm to the Bruins?

McAvoy leads the team in average ice time (23:40) and has contributed 26 points this season, while Lindholm ranked second in ice time (20:51) and provided steady defensive play before his injury.

February 25, 2025
Will Brad Marchand Stay in Boston? Star Forward Breaks Silence on Contract Talks
Boston Bruins captain Brad Marchand is at the center of the rumors as his contract winds down. With the Bruins struggling to make the playoffs and Marchand’s contract expiring, fans want answers on whether their fiery leader will be back in Boston beyond this season. Here’s everything you need to know about Marchand’s situation, his comments and what it means for the franchise going forward.

Marchand Says “I’ve Always Planned on Playing Here My Entire Career”

During Monday’s media availability, Brad Marchand addressed the swirling rumors surrounding his future with the Bruins. While he acknowledged negotiations are ongoing, he said he knows where he stands personally.

“We’re in talks,” Marchand said. “I feel like I know where I’m at personally. But again, that’s gonna stay between us.”

Marchand went on to say he’s not going anywhere.

“I’ve always planned on playing here my entire career. That hasn’t changed. You know, they’re aware of that. Everyone’s aware of that. It’s a gift to be playing for this team and I take a lot of pride in it. So, yeah, that’s always been the goal.”

Despite his words, Marchand is a pending unrestricted free agent (UFA) at the end of the season. His eight year, $49 million deal expires at the end of the year and both sides are running out of time to get a deal done before the trade deadline.

Bruins GM Weighs In

Bruins GM Don Sweeney spoke to the media over the weekend and confirmed that talks with Marchand are underway. No details on the terms or timeline of a potential extension yet.

The Bruins are out of the playoff picture (1 point behind Ottawa and Columbus for the final wild card spot) so the front office has a tough decision to make. Do they sign Marchand or trade him to a contender for assets?

The Trade Rumor Mill

Brad Marchand’s name has been floated in trade rumors and he’s even was No. 10 on TSN’s Chris Johnston’s latest trade board. No indication the Bruins are looking to move their captain but several contenders could be interested if Boston decides to sell.

Marchand’s resume:
- Playoff Experience: 157 career playoff games with 138 points (56 goals, 82 assists)
- Championship Pedigree: Won the Stanley Cup with Boston in 2011, the World Cup of Hockey with Canada in 2016 and the 2025 4 Nations Face-Off with Team Canada
He’s a guy who elevates his game in big situations so he’s a target for teams looking to make a deep run.

Bruins’ Playoff Push

The Bruins are 27-24-7 and just a point behind the Senators and Blue Jackets for the final wild-card spot in the East. Every game matters now and Marchand’s leadership will be huge as Boston tries to extend its season.

Tuesday night the Bruins host the Toronto Maple Leafs at the Garden, 7 p.m. EST. A win would be a big boost to the playoff hopes and maybe ease some of the tension around Marchand’s future.

FAQs About Brad Marchand

Is Brad Marchand leaving the Boston Bruins?

Not necessarily. Marchand wants to finish his career in Boston but nothing is guaranteed until a new contract is signed.

When does Brad Marchand’s contract expire?

His current deal expires at the end of the 2024-25 season making him a pending UFA.

Why are people talking about trading Brad Marchand?

As a pending UFA with so much value he could bring back a lot in a trade. If the Bruins miss the playoffs they may move him to rebuild for the future.

How good has Marchand been this season?

At 36 he’s still playing at a high level, 45 points (20 goals, 25 assists) in 58 games this season.
February 25, 2025
Boston Bruins vs Toronto Maple Leafs: Game Preview, Predictions, and Odds | February 25, 2025
The Boston Bruins will play against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday night at 7 p.m. on February 25, 2025. ET. Following their tough overtime loss to the Anaheim Ducks the Bruins are determined to break their current three-game losing streak and recapture crucial momentum. The Bruins need to win against Toronto since their opponent arrives with a winning streak which could significantly impact Boston’s playoff prospects. We will examine the upcoming game as the Bruins prepare to face their opponents.

Boston Bruins Recent Performance

With a record of 27 wins, 24 losses, and 7 ties Boston remains outside the playoff position in the Eastern Conference. Their recent performance has shown clear struggles as mounting losses combined with inconsistent gameplay continue to plague the team. The Bruins lost a 3-2 overtime game to Anaheim last time out while demonstrating their potential alongside obvious flaws.

The Boston team anticipates Jeremy Swayman as their starting goaltender. The player achieved an 18-18-5 record this season along with a 2.98 GAA and .898 SV%. When facing Toronto teams Swayman has faced difficulties throughout his history with a 5-4 record and statistics showing a 2.85 goals against average alongside a .902 save percentage. Boston needs Jeremy Swayman to deliver an essential performance to keep Toronto’s powerful offense under control.

Key players to watch for the Bruins include:

David Pastrnak

David Pastrnak is leading the way for the Bruins with 69 points so far this season. He’s fast, skilled and has a deadly shot. He’ll need to be on fire to beat Toronto. If the Bruins win, he’ll need to be at his best.

Brad Marchand

Brad Marchand has been another bright light for Boston with 45 points. He’s relentless and a playmaker. He’ll need help from his teammates to get through Toronto’s defense.

Pavel Zacha and Morgan Geekie

Pavel Zacha (33) and Morgan Geekie (30) round out Boston’s top players. Both will need to step up and provide secondary scoring to take some pressure off Pastrnak and Marchand.

Head-to-Head: Bruins vs Maple Leafs

The Bruins have the advantage in the all-time series 295-284-98-14 but Toronto has been the better team this season 35-20-2 coming off a 5-2 win over the Blackhawks.

Here’s a quick rundown:
- Goals per game: Bruins 2.74 vs Maple Leafs 3.15
- Goals allowed per game: Bruins 3.17 vs Maple Leafs 2.82
- Home record: Bruins 18-9-4 vs Maple Leafs’ road record 15-9-2
Game Preview: Can the Bruins Turn it Around?

The Bruins are in a tough spot 3 games in a row and out of the playoffs. Their offense is struggling to find consistency and their defense is leaky. To win this game they need:
1. Good Goaltending: Swayman has to be great.
2. Offense: Pastrnak and Marchand have to go.
3. Home Ice: The Bruins are good at home this season and need the Garden to energize them.
On the other side the Maple Leafs are rolling with Mitch Marner (71 points), William Nylander (58 points) and Auston Matthews (47 points) leading the way. Their goalie Anthony Stolarz has been good 2.13 GAA and .928 SV% this season.

Odds and Prediction

Toronto -126, Boston +105, O5.5

Prediction: Bruins have home ice, but their recent form and offense have me leaning the other way. Leafs will control the game and win.

Final Score Prediction: Leafs 3, Bruins 1

Betting Tips
1. Toronto ML (-126): Leafs are in better form here.
2. Under 5.5 (-102): Both teams have good goaltenders so should be a lower scoring game.
February 25, 2025