JUST IN: Bruins Receive More Bad News as Serious Injury Setback Confirmed on Another Key Star March

The key player has been absent from the Boston Bruins’ lineup since February 8, and his return remains uncertain. While fans are eager to see the star defenseman back on the ice, the team has confirmed he will miss their upcoming five-game road trip, which kicks off Thursday in Las Vegas.

Interim head coach Joe Sacco addressed the media following Tuesday’s practice, stating that he will not be traveling with the team. This decision fuels speculation about the severity of his recovery timeline, as the Bruins continue to play without one of their most important defensive assets.

He sustained a significant AC joint injury in his shoulder during Team USA’s opening game of the NHL 4 Nations Face-Off against Finland. Compounding the issue, he also developed an infection, requiring hospitalization for three nights. His condition was severe enough that he was released from medical care just hours before Team USA’s championship game loss to Team Canada.

Adding another layer of intrigue, SportsNet’s Elliotte Friedman reported that the Bruins were reportedly dissatisfied with the medical treatment McAvoy received under Team USA’s care during the tournament. However, when asked to comment, Bruins general manager Don Sweeney opted for a diplomatic response.

“We’re very grateful and appreciative to (team doctor) Dr. (Peter) Asnis and the medical staff that took care of Charlie,” Sweeney stated. “Again, the care that Charlie received here is what’s most important from the standpoint of where his health is at now, and that’s all that really matters. Dr. Asnis’ team, as I stated, did a great job.”

Despite the uncertainty, there is no official timetable for McAvoy’s return. Over the weekend, Sacco reiterated that the top-pairing defenseman remains week-to-week, with no clear indication of when he might be available to rejoin the team.

For now, the Bruins will have to continue navigating their season without one of their most reliable blueliners. While they’ve managed to stay competitive, McAvoy’s absence is a significant challenge as they push toward the playoffs. His return, whenever it happens, will be a crucial boost to Boston’s defensive depth.