Bruins’ David Pastrnak, Charlie McAvoy and a route out of the darkness
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS – OCTOBER 30: David Pastrnak #88 of the Boston Bruins and Charlie McAvoy #73 look on during the third period against the Florida Panthers at TD Garden on October 30, 2023 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)
BOSTON — David Pastrnak is not familiar with Boston in early September. The Boston Bruins right wing has usually deferred his Stateside arrivals until just before training camp starts.
But in a departure, this year Pastrnak made his trip over the Atlantic early enough to participate in Tuesday’s captains’ practice at Warrior Ice Arena. It was unfamiliar ice.
“Never used to be here this early,” Pastrnak said with a smile. “Something new for me as well.”
One reason Pastrnak opted for an early re-entry is that he and his family are considering moving. But Pastrnak also adjusted his landing time to take part in the first of the team’s two pre-camp practices (the second is Thursday).
Pastrnak and Charlie McAvoy, last year’s alternate captains, are shoulder to shoulder when it comes to succeeding Brad Marchand as the lone wearer of the “C.” As such, it was Pastrnak’s responsibility to be present for the on-ice sessions that Marchand, Patrice Bergeron and Zdeno Chara once commanded. It would not do for a leading candidate to be absent.
“Sept. 1, I think, everybody’s kind of worried about being 100 percent ready to go for training camp,” Pastrnak said. “The season didn’t end the way we wanted it. We all know and are aware that it’s unacceptable for an organization like this. Training camp is going to be hard. We know it. Mentally, as of now, Day 1, you just try to settle in. A bunch of guys traveled from Europe, getting