42 David Backes RW

Bruins' David Backes: Collects two helpers in OT loss

The veteran has now collected three helpers through three games since returning from a leg injury March 27. Backes has only suited up for 53 contests this season, and his 12 goals and 19 assists probably aren't serviceable marks outside of deep settings. However, he has 51 PIM and 129 hits, so he carries more value in formats including those categories. It's also worth noting that Backes entered Sunday's game with an impressive 55.9 Corsi For percentage, so his real-world contributions to the Bruins in all facets of the game shouldn't be underestimated.

Bruins' David Backes: Back in business

In the process, Backes logged three shots and four hits, while working on the third line with Danton Heinen and Riley Nash. Look for that trio to remain intact for the time being, with the Bruins coming off a big win and Jake DeBrusk (upper body) set to return to action Saturday against the Panthers, rounding out the team's second line along with Ryan Donato and David Krejci. It's possible that future injuries or lineup shuffling could lead to Backes moving up in the lineup, but for now, the veteran power forward will see bottom-six work to supplement man-advantage opportunities.

Bruins' David Backes: Looks good to go

Backes is thus slated to skate on the Bruins' third line Thursday, along with Danton Heinen and Riley Nash. In his last game, March 17 against the Lightning, Backes notched his 12th goal of the season (in 50 contests). In his anticipated return to action Thursday, the 33-year-old power forward will provide the Bruins with a welcome dose of size and grit up front for the team's key Atlantic Division showdown against Tampa Bay.

Bruins' David Backes: Participates in line rushes Thursday

While not yet confirmed, it appears as though the power forward is poised to return to action Thursday night against the Lightning. Backes is bouncing back from a right leg laceration that he suffered March 17, which required 17-18 stitches. Prior to that, the 33-year-old had logged 12 goals and 28 points in 50 games.

Bruins' David Backes: Skates again Wednesday

The same applies to fellow injured teammates Jake DeBrusk (upper body), Charlie McAvoy (knee) and Zdeno Chara (upper body), with GM Don Sweeney suggesting that the four players are "closer than further away." That blanket statement doesn't provide a specific timetable for Backes' possible return, so we'll consider the power forward day-to-day in advance of Thursday's game against the Lightning.