Bruins return with playoff urgency after Olympic break shake-up
The Boston Bruins returned to the ice this week after a two-week Olympic break. The team resumed practice with renewed focus, preparing for a critical stretch in their playoff push.
Their first game back will be against the Columbus Blue Jackets, who trail them by four points in the standings. The Bruins currently hold the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, making every upcoming match vital.
Head coach Marco Sturm ran the first session like a training camp, setting a high-intensity tone. Several players had just returned from competing in the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026, while others used the break to recover.
Among those recovering was Pavel Zacha, who skated in a non-contact jersey after missing the Olympics due to injury. Another key absence was Charlie McAvoy, nominated for Team USA but sidelined by an injury from the 4-Nations Championship.
Forward Morgan Geekie, who entered the break on an eight-game point streak, spent the time resting and recharging. The Bruins also called up goaltender Michael DiPietro from Providence, where the AHL affiliate leads the Atlantic Division with a strong 37-8-1 record.
The team is now embracing the pressure, eager to fight for their playoff position in the final stretch of the season.
With their sights set on securing a postseason berth, the Bruins face a tough schedule ahead. The return of key players and the addition of DiPietro provide depth as they take on Columbus in their first game back. Every point will be crucial in maintaining their wild-card position.
