The Vancouver native was drafted 50th overall by Boston in 2006 and went on to spend the first eight seasons of his career with the Bruins, making the playoffs every year but one and winning the Stanley Cup in 2011. Lucic experienced plenty of nostalgia as the Oilers practiced at TD Garden on Wednesday.
"It's always special to come back," he said. "It is kind of like my hometown where I spent a lot of time, so it's always a little extra special. I'm just looking forward to tomorrow night."
While Thursday's game will be Lucic's first in Boston as a member of the Oilers, he made his official return to Beantown last season as a member of the Los Angeles Kings.
Lucic received a standing ovation from the Bruins faithful following a video tribute on the scoreboard during a TV timeout in the first period. He then proceeded to score once and chip in with two assists as the Kings dismantled the Bruins 9-2.
While the final score may be difficult to duplicate, Lucic is hoping this return to Boston will be just as positive.
"It definitely feels kind of weird… it feels like it's been forever since I've been here," he said. "I've only played here one time before this time, and that was obviously a great experience. This time around, I'm hoping for the same type of result."
The veteran left-winger is tied for third in Oilers scoring with 26 points (10 goals, 16 assists) in 39 games.
