After missing 16 games, Bruins' Pastrnak set to return

Boston Bruins right winger David Pastrnak, who has missed 16 games after injuring his left thumb in an off-ice fall, participated fully in practice Monday and could return to game action Tuesday. "Not saying that he will, but he'll make that decision in conjunction with the medical staff as early as (Tuesday) after morning skate," Bruins coach Bruce Cassidy said on NHL.com. "I would assume he'll be a game-time decision. ... I suspect if he doesn't play (Tuesday) that Thursday will be a real good day."

Boston plays at the New York Islanders on Tuesday before moving on for Thursday's game at the New Jersey Devils. Pastrnak, 22, was the team's leader scorer when he slipped and fell on his way to his car after attending a sponsorship dinner with several of his teammates on Feb. 10. Pastrnak is still tied for the team lead with 31 goals and is third with 66 points in 56 games.

He also was leading the NHL in power-play goals (15) at the time of his injury. He told reporters Monday he is feeling no pain but will wear a brace to protect the thumb.

Boston (43-20-9) has the second-most points in the Eastern Conference with 10 games to go before the playoffs. "I have been working really hard to get ready for that," Pastrnak said. "I don't know how I'm going to feel the first game back, so a little nervous, obviously."