BOSTON | A star player’s absence at practice the day after an overtime playoff game usually isn’t suspicious. But for Boston Bruins forward David Krejci, it’s a different story.
Krejci was involved in an unpredictable, scary moment after the Bruins’ OT victory over the Washington Capitals that could be a huge factor in the series. As the Bruins were celebrating Chris Kelly’s winning goal, a pane of glass fell on Krejci, appearing to strike him in the head or upper back.
Krejci was not on the ice for Friday morning’s practice. Jordan Caron, who was a healthy scratch Thursday night, took his place on the first line.
But the Czech center addressed reporters and said he was feeling “pretty good.”
“I got a little sore neck,” he said. “Other than that I’m good and I’ll play tomorrow.”
Asked if he was tested for a concussion, Krejci said: “Um, I feel good.”
Likewise, Boston coach Claude Julien brushed off concern about Krejci’s status. He said Krejci was set to practice Friday before being a late scratch but added that he was scheduled to play in Game 2 Saturday.
“He’s fine. Glass fell on him yesterday as everybody saw,” Julien said. “He was a little stiff around the neck area this morning. … We’re fortunatet that it wasn’t worse than what it is.”
Julien admitted it could have been more “damaging” but said the Bruins dodged a bullet.
Bruins lines from Friday’s practice:
Milan Lucic - Rich Peverley - Jordan Caron
Brad Marchand - Patrice Bergeron - Tyler Seguin
Benoit Pouliot - Chris Kelly - Brian Rolston
Daniel Paille - Gregory Campbell - Shawn Thornton
Here’s video:
