The Bruins finally received the boost they have been waiting for, as both Charlie McAvoy and David Pastrnak are now expected to return at some point during the team's three-game road swing.

Multiple reports confirmed Monday that the Bruins will travel with two of their most important players for the first time since each suffered significant setbacks. Their presence signals that a return is no longer hypothetical but imminent.

Pastrnak, who has missed the last five games, practiced earlier in the day and told reporters he felt good.

His progress aligns with Marco Sturm's earlier comments that the winger needed several strong skates before even being considered for re entry. Now he appears to be through that phase, and his tone suggested confidence.

McAvoy's situation has been even more delicate. The defenseman has not played since November 15, when he took a slap shot to the face that required facial surgery.

Yet he skated in all drills Monday wearing a bubble shield and, crucially, not in a red non-contact sweater. That detail alone implied that clearance may be close.

Returning stars would reshape Boston Bruins' lineup instantly

Sturm has been forced to juggle combinations across all three zones, relying heavily on players like Nikita Zadorov, Mason Lohrei, Casey Mittelstadt and Pavel Zacha to absorb expanded roles.

Adding McAvoy and Pastrnak back into the lineup stabilizes everything from breakouts to offensive-zone entries.

Before their injuries, Pastrnak posted 29 points in 25 games, while McAvoy logged 14 assists in 19 outings.

Their production speaks for itself, but their impact extends far beyond the scoresheet. Pastrnak reshapes penalty-kill strategy and forces teams into deeper defensive posture. McAvoy controls pace, closes gaps, and anchors the top pairing.

Inside the room, the news sparked energy. Players acknowledged the lift that having their leaders travel provides, even if both still require final medical clearance.