Brad Marchand is playing for the Florida Panthers against the Boston Bruins after being ruled out due to an undisclosed injury.
What happened?
Florida Panthers coach Paul Maurice initially said Brad Marchand would not play.
But Marchand took warmups and is officially set to return.
He had missed the past two games and nine of Florida's past 13 games.
Why it matters for Brad Marchand
Brad Marchand's return is a boost to the Panthers, given his 25 goals and 50 points in 45 games.
He is second on the team in goals, assists, and points despite missing time.
What comes next?
The Panthers also got positive injury news on centers Anton Lundell and Sam Bennett.
Lundell had missed the past three games with an upper-body injury.
Bennett departed Florida's 5-3 loss to the Buffalo Sabres on Monday after the first period.
The forward lines during warmups included Brad Marchand with A.J. Greer and Evan Rodrigues.
Carter Verhaeghe, Anton Lundell, and Sam Reinhart formed another line.
Eetu Luostarinen, Sam Bennett, and Matthew Tkachuk made up the third line.
Sandis Vilmanis, Cole Schwindt, and Mackie Samosckevich formed the fourth line.
Brad Marchand's return to play is a significant development for the Panthers.
The team needs his scoring power to compete against tough opponents like the Boston Bruins.
As of Wednesday, Brad Marchand has played in 45 games this season.
He has been a key player for the Panthers, with his injury being a significant concern.
The Panthers' coach, Paul Maurice, had initially been cautious about Brad Marchand's status.
But with Brad Marchand taking warmups, it was clear he was ready to return.
The Boston Bruins are a tough opponent, and the Panthers need all their top players.
Brad Marchand's return is a welcome boost to the team's chances.