Bruins' Backes will be healthy scratch for 1st time in playoff career

Boston Bruins forward David Backes will not be in the lineup Thursday for Game 1 against the Toronto Maple Leafs as the veteran was declared a healthy scratch for the first time in his postseason career, according to The Athletic's Joe McDonald.

Head coach Bruce Cassidy had a long conversation with Backes following Tuesday's practice to inform the 34-year-old of the decision, McDonald added. He understands that the team will likely have to suffer an injury or go on a losing skid for him to return to the lineup, so he's just fine cheering his teammates on from the press box.

"The shitty part is for me to get back in there are three things that would need to happen potentially and none of them are really good," Backes said. 'You’re trying to be a good teammate and hoping that the team has success and wins games, but I want to win a Cup too and if that means I’m sitting some and other guys have a chance to produce then I’ll grab the pom-poms for when I need to."

Backes has seen his point total decrease in five consecutive campaigns and recorded a career-worst 20 points over 70 games this season.

After being listed as a healthy scratch earlier this year, he discussed his role on the club with his head coach. The 6-foot-3 Backes responded by using his size and toughness to remain in the lineup, dropping the gloves on several occasions.

"It gave us real common ground for the rest of the regular season," Backes said. "I thought we were at a place where I was very understanding of what was asked of me and going out there and doing it. I hope, and still hope, I can provide that in the playoffs as well. But, he’s going with a more speedy, faster type of lineup against the Leafs in Game 1 and he’s not finding me fitting that mold."

Backes has recorded 27 points over 49 career playoff contests but contributed just three points in 12 games last spring.