The Ottawa Senators are finally starting to get some good news on the injury front.
Derick Brassard, who had major off-season shoulder surgery, appears to be a ahead of schedule in his rehab process, suddenly opening the door for a return in time to start the NHL regular season on October 5th.
There have been signs at the last couple practices that Brassard might be a little closer to returning than originally anticipated. Not only has he been taking regular rotations at 5 on 5 and on the power play, but he was briefly in a regular contact jersey during Thursday’s practice. He changed to the non-contact blue early on but it was the first real indication that he might be close to 100%.
Guy Boucher met with the media this morning and made it clear that Brassard is closer than they expected.
Basically at this point, it will come down to what the surgeon says and if he gets the go-ahead, he can return to full practice. Originally Brassard suggested that wasn’t possible before the four month mark (which was right around opening night) but it seems like the timelines have shifted a little bit.
Not necessarily back in time for opening night but it’s going to be close.
Getting Brassard back would obviously be a huge addition to the line up. With Colin White out for 6-8 weeks, the Senators need a little help down the middle.
Boucher offered up a few other line up notes for tomorrow night’s game against the Montreal Canadiens along with updates on Kyle Turris and Ryan Dzingel.
#Sens Head Coach Guy Boucher speaks to media following practice @CdnTireCtr. pic.twitter.com/Xu5JMBxepY
— Ottawa Senators (@Senators) September 22, 2017
