Overview
- David Pastrnak dressed against St. Louis after being a game‑time decision and contributed in a 5-2 win, with postgame review crediting him with three assists.
- Charlie McAvoy practiced in a full face shield, traveled for the three‑game trip, and could be cleared as soon as Thursday in Winnipeg pending medical sign‑off.
- McAvoy detailed a linear facial fracture with displaced bone and significant tooth loss on Nov. 15, underwent surgery, and is regaining weight after a liquid‑diet drop of about 20 pounds.
- Coach Marco Sturm said returns will not be rushed, stressing that reintegration must fit the team’s recent structure and require full medical clearance.
- Boston stayed competitive during the absences, going 5-5-0 since McAvoy was sidelined and 3-2-0 without both stars before Pastrnak’s return.