Boston Bruins forward Matt Poitras gave a thumbs up after a scary-looking injury during Thursday’s game against the New York Islanders. Poitras collided with an open bench door after a hit from Brock Nelson and practiced with the team on Friday.
Here’s what you need to know about the incident and Poitras’ status moving forward.
What Happened to Matt Poitras?
During Thursday’s game against the Islanders, Poitras was involved in a freak play that sent the Bruins’ bench into panic mode. A hit from Islanders forward Brock Nelson sent Poitras tumbling towards the Islanders’ bench. Instead of falling safely inside, Poitras hit the open bench door and suffered a lower body injury. He was taken out of the game and did not return.
Interim coach Joe Sacco had no update on Poitras after the game so fans were left wondering how bad the injury was. But Poitras was at practice on Friday and that’s good news.
“It was just an unlucky play … Obviously it was a little scary,” Poitras said after practice. “It didn’t feel good last night but feels better today. I’m lucky it wasn’t worse than it was. Still a little sore but just a bruise.”
Teammates Weigh In
David Pastrnak, a teammate of Poitras, called the play “unfortunate” and noted that the bench door is supposed to be closed during such plays. “You don’t want to see that around the doors,” Pastrnak said. Despite the weirdness of the play, there doesn’t seem to be any ill will towards Nelson. Poitras himself downplayed any blame, saying it was just a matter of being in the wrong place at the wrong time.
“I think it was just very unfortunate and unlucky. Can’t really blame anybody for that. It was just a fluke play,” Poitras said.
Poitras’ Status Update
Still a bit sore, Poitras was full go at practice today. He skated and did drills so I think he’ll be good to go Saturday vs the Penguins. We can’t afford to lose any bodies right now.
“As expected I was a little sore today, but didn’t affect my practice,” Poitras said. “I feel good and looking forward to getting back out there.”
Why Poitras Matters
We’re on the outside looking in on the playoff race. We haven’t won since Feb 4 and need everyone to contribute. Poitras has been solid lately, 4 points and +3 in the last 7 games. Losing him even for a game would be a big blow to our chances of getting back in.
FAQs About Matt Poitras’ Injury
What happened to Matt Poitras during the Islanders game?
Poitras got hurt after running into an open bench door after a hit from Brock Nelson. It happened late in the game and he didn’t return.
Is Matt Poitras going to miss any games?
Not likely. He practiced full today and said he’s good to go for Saturday’s game vs the Pens.
How bad was the injury?
It looked bad in the moment but Poitras called it just a bruise. He was sore today but practiced without limitations.
What did Poitras say about the play?
He called it an unlucky and fluke play and doesn’t blame anyone for it. Said these things happen and he’s just glad it wasn’t worse.
Why is Poitras important right now?
He’s been contributing offensively with 4 points and a +3 in the last 7 games. The team is struggling to win and fighting for a playoff spot so he’s gotta be in the lineup.