2010 NHL Playoffs: Marc Savard Set to Return, Mark Stuart Still a Question Mark

As has been widely reported, Bruins center Marc Savard is set to make his return to the team as they get ready for their second round playoff matchup. Savard will be playing in his first game since suffering a Grade Two concussion on March 7 in a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Ironically the Bruins might just end up playing the Penguins if the Washington Capitals are able to beat the Montreal Canadiens tonight in Game Seven.

It had been looking like Savard wouldn't be able to return this season as he was still suffering concussion related symptoms long after the hit, but he has had a remarkable turnaround and has been cleared to play. Claude Julien has yet to say how Savard will be used in the lineup, but I assume he will be brought back slowly. He may not even end up playing as a center to start since the Bruins already have Bergeron, Krejci, Sobotka, and Begin.

No matter where he plays, Savard will certainly have an impact and may just be an even bigger spark in helping the team advance to the Eastern Conference Finals.

Mark Stuart, who is also trying to come back from finger surgery, is still a question mark. It was originally thought that he would be out for two to three weeks, which is just coming to an end now. On Tuesday though, Bruins GM Peter Chiarelli spoke, saying that he does not expect Stuart to be able to play in the second round series.

The Bruins defense has been very good this year but Stuart would be a nice boost. If the Bruins are able to win this series expect him to make his return in the next round.