Tuukka Rask Diagnosed With Concussion, Out Thursday Vs. Canucks
BOSTON (CBS) -- The Boston Bruins will be without their starting goalie for the foreseeable future.
Tuukka Rask has been diagnosed with a concussion and is out for Thursday. The Boston netminder will now follow the NHL's concussion protocols.
In Rask's place, Anton Khudobin will get the start in net, Bruins head coach Bruce Cassidy announced Thursday morning. Zane McIntyre was recalled from Providence and serve as Khudobin's backup.
Elsewhere, forward David Backes will return on Thursday as he recovers from diverticulitis. Peter Cehlarik was sent back down to Providence as a corresponding move.
Patrice Bergeron (lower-body injury) is officially a game-time decision. He practiced on a line with Brad Marchand and Anders Bjork on Wednesday and participated in the team's optional skate on Thursday morning.
Defenseman Adam McQuaid (lower-body injury) is also expected to return to the lineup. Forward Kenny Agostino will play, taking the place of the injured Ryan Spooner, who will miss the next 4-6 weeks with a torn groin adductor.
The 2-3 Bruins are allowing the 10th-most goals per game (3.6) in the NHL through five games, while scoring the 11th-fewest at 2.8. The hope is that Bergeron's eventual return will restore some much-needed stability to the lineup.