Bruins Defeat Canadiens 3-2 as McAvoy Exits with Facial Injury

MONTREAL — The Boston Bruins defeated the Montreal Canadiens 3-2 in a physical Original Six matchup on Saturday night at the Bell Centre, but the victory came at a cost with defenseman Charlie McAvoy exiting the game after a slap shot struck him in the face.

The incident occurred midway through the second period at 11:01, during a Canadiens power play. Montreal defenseman Noah Dobsons one-timer appeared to deflect off Boston forward Mark Kastelic before hitting McAvoy in the mouth. The 27-year-old assistant captain immediately clutched his face and dropped to the ice, blood visible as he skated off with assistance from the team trainer. Teammate Nikita Zadorov was observed searching the ice for what appeared to be dislodged teeth. McAvoy did not return, and the Bruins announced he was ruled out for the remainder of the contest.

Bruins coach Marco Sturm provided an update after the game, expressing cautious optimism. "He's doing OK. He's just getting some testing done," Sturm said. "I didn't talk to anyone yet. Just try to get the testing done, try to get him home as soon as possible. Hopefully tonight with us."

The game began with high intensity, as Boston's Zadorov and...