Bruins get offensive boost in time for season opener

The offseason has been an intense one for Boston Bruins veteran forward Patrice Bergeron who took some precautionary measures ahead of the 2018-19 season to make sure he could be in the lineup for the team's season opener. And it seems that the gamble has paid off. 

The star forward underwent groin surgery in June and he took precautions to ensure he’ll be ready for the start of the regular season. A few weeks ago he decided to miss out the team's trip to China where they faced the Calgary Flames twice in exhibition games, in order to focus on his rehab in order to achieve his main goal to be ready when the puck drops on the new Bruins season Oct. 3 against the Washington Capitals. 

It seems to have work. Bruins head coach Bruce Cassidy revealed that his star forward is expected to be in the lineup against the Capitals on the 3rd. Bergeron himself confirmed the news, stating that he would miss Saturday's last preseason contest in order to be in top shape for Wednesday's opener. 

"It’s probably unlikely that I’ll be playing [on Saturday]. Gonna have a few more good practices and be ready for the opener in Washington," stated Bergeron after practice on Friday. 

It was the first time Bergeron took part in a full practice session with the rest of his teammates since the surgery. 

"It felt good, overall no issues."

When the need for the surgery was first reported at the end of the Bruins' postseason run, many expected the forward to be back in action at the beginning of August. While it did take a little longer, fans will be reassured to see that the veteran player took all the necessary precautions and steps to return in full health to the lineup. 

Bergeron set a new personal best for points per game in the last season, in which he registered 30 goals and 33 assists in the 64 games. He also finished third in Selke Trophy voting, the ninth consecutive season in which he’s finished top five in Selke votes.

Bruins fans are definitely going to be happy to see him back full strength as soon as the season kicks off.