After sitting out the last three games as a healthy scratch, David Backes will return to the lineup on Thursday night alongside Coyle and Danton Heinen on Boston's third line. Bruins coach Bruce Cassidy was pleased with the effort of Brett Ritchie in that spot on Tuesday in Nashville, but felt it was right that every player on the roster get into the lineup with the moms still in town.
"We always do what's best for the hockey club first, but we just felt like that was the appropriate thing to do," said Cassidy. "Ritchie, unfortunately, comes out. I think they play similar games. He actually had a real good game, so a little unfortunate timing, but if he carries that over, he'll be fine, he'll get his opportunity. I think David's certainly capable of doing things Ritchie can. Hopefully he can carry over what happened the other night."
Backes noted that he'll try to play his own style against the Jets, but is hoping to help continue the success that the Bruins' third line (goals from Heinen and Coyle) had in Nashville.
"They were impactful in the game," said Backes. "I'm gonna get an opportunity tonight, so try to continue that sort of role and get in on the forecheck, do what I do. I can't try to do what Ritch does even though we're similar players. I've got to do what I do best and try to make an impact with whatever opportunity I get."
Having been out of game action for about 10 days, Backes will also be trying to use any extra energy that he has to his advantage.
"Moms are still in town. Get to play in front of mom, that's always exciting," said Backes. "It's been a little while, so I'll probably be the freshest guy out there and I'll want to use that to my advantage. Hopefully get my legs moving, start skating, and hold onto some pucks.
"If I can do that, hopefully I can establish myself and have an impact on the game and earn some more opportunities going forward."