Bruins' Zdeno Chara Uncertain for SCF Game 5 vs. Blues After Taking Puck to Face

Boston Bruins captain Zdeno Chara is questionable for Game 5 of the Stanley Cup Final against the St. Louis Blues after he took a puck to the face in Game 4 on Monday night.

Bruins coach Bruce Cassidy spoke about the defenseman's condition following the team's 4-2 loss, h/t Eric Russo of the team's official site:

"Very uncomfortable, was advised not to return to play. Had some stitches, probably some dental work in the near future. I don't know his status for Game 5. Obviously when he gets back home he'll have to be re-evaluated, see how he feels [on Tuesday] for starters. Obviously if we have something we'll give it to you. I can't say whether he'd play in Game 5 or not. No idea."

The team did not have an update as of Tuesday morning.

Chara left the game in the second period after being hit by a shot attempt by the Blues' Brayden Schenn. He was bloodied and immediately went to the locker room to receive medical attention.

He did not play another shift, though he did return to the bench in the third period with a full shield covering his face. 

Boston forward Marcus Johansson discussed the captain's importance after the game:

Chara played eight minutes and 23 seconds, recording one assist and an even plus-minus rating. Without him for the final 37 minutes, though, the Bruins couldn't pull out a come-from-behind victory. St. Louis outscored Boston 2-0 in the final period to grab a 4-2 win to tie the series at two games apiece.

Even at 42 years old, the 6'9", 250-pound Chara remains a pivotal part of the team's success. His presence in the lineup becomes even more important given the uncertain status of fellow defenseman Matt Grzelcyk, who has been out of the lineup since suffering a head injury in Game 2.

Boston will have nearly three full days between Games 4 and 5, as the teams will be off until Thursday at 8 p.m. ET.