Boston Bruins defenseman Charlie McAvoy reflected candidly on his recent injury as Bruins Canadiens context brings memories back to the surface. The experience tested him physically and mentally.

McAvoy suffered the injury after being struck in the face by a puck off the stick of Montreal Canadiens defenseman Noah Dobson. The impact was immediate and severe, sending McAvoy down in pain and ultimately requiring facial surgery.

The recovery proved more difficult than many realized. Following surgery, McAvoy was placed on a liquid-only diet, a drastic change that took a toll quickly. Within the first week and a half, he lost roughly 20 pounds.

“It might be the most frustrating injury I think I've had,” McAvoy said via Bruins.com. “You don't really ever think about eating, drinking, stuff like that, you take it for granted, I guess.”

The discomfort extended beyond the fracture itself.

“Through the injuries in the mouth, the intubation, the surgery, I had a lot of canker sores and stuff,” McAvoy added. “It was just a lot of discomfort that took seven to 10 days after the surgery to get over that hump.”

Charlie McAvoy grateful after long recovery road

McAvoy ultimately missed close to a month of action before returning. As Boston prepares to face Montreal again, he made sure to acknowledge those who helped him along the way.

“Just grateful now to be on the other side, to be on track and getting healthy,” McAvoy said. “And grateful for all the doctors, not just in Montreal, but here in Boston, that took such good care of me.”

He emphasized perspective gained through recovery. “When you come back, I always just feel really appreciative for the people who helped me get back every time.”

Despite the setback, McAvoy has still been productive. He has recorded one goal and 18 assists for 19 points in 25 games this season, continuing to anchor Boston's blue line.

The injury may have been the most frustrating of his career, but McAvoy's response reinforces why he remains such a cornerstone in Boston.