The Bruins blue line is finally whole again.

Ahead of Thursday's matchup against the Winnipeg Jets, the team made a major roster move, activating Charlie McAvoy from injured reserve and confirming he will return to the lineup tonight.

McAvoy has been out since November 15 after taking a slap shot to the jaw, an injury that required facial surgery and forced him to miss nearly a month.

His recovery progressed gradually, shifting from light skating to full-contact work over the past week.

Wednesday's practice offered the first real hint of an imminent return when he led the team stretch in Winnipeg, but this morning's announcement made it official.

The Bruins confirmed the transaction through their beat reporters, with Shawn Hutcheon noting, “The #NHLBruins have added defenseman Charlie McAvoy (Date of Injury: Nov. 15) to the active roster.”

McAvoy's return brings stability at crucial point in road trip

McAvoy's absence forced Boston to rely heavily on Hampus Lindholm, Nikita Zadorov and rookie Mason Lohrei, and while that group held strong, the team's transition game and defensive rhythm are noticeably sharper when McAvoy patrols the right side.

His return not only restores balance across pairings, it allows players to settle back into roles that fit their strengths.

The Bruins enter tonight's game at 19-13-0, battling to stay near the top of the Atlantic Division while navigating injuries to multiple core players this season.

Getting McAvoy back during this three game road trip gives them a significant boost at a time when the schedule tightens and points become increasingly critical.

For McAvoy, tonight marks the end of a challenging four week stretch spent regaining strength, conditioning and confidence with a protective shield.

His full participation in drills earlier this week showed he was close, and now the Bruins get back a 25 minute per night defender who drives possession and anchors special teams.

Boston's lineup finally regains its top defenseman - and just in time for a tough battle in Winnipeg.