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.
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.