Bruins' Craig Smith expected to play Game 3 vs. Islanders

Boston Bruins right winger Craig Smith (12) during the first period against the New York Rangers at TD Garden. Winslow Townson-USA TODAY Sports

Bruins forward Craig Smith expected to play Game 3 vs. Islanders after battling lower-body injury

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 6/2/21

The Boston Bruins second line will receive a jolt on Thursday night following a Game 2 second-round loss to the New York Islanders on Monday.

Bruins head coach Bruce Cassidy said Wednesday that he expects Craig Smith to play Game 3 at Nassau Coliseum, according to Joe McDonald of the Worcester Telegram and Gazette.

Cassidy said he assumes Smith will be ready for Game 3. Miller is not ready. There's no issue with Rask, the coach said.
— Joe McDonald (@JoeyMacHockey) June 2, 2021

Smith missed Game 2 with a lower-body injury and returned to practice on Wednesday.

The 31-year-old joined the Bruins on a three-year, $9.3 million deal ahead of the 2020-21 campaign. He tallied 13 goals and 19 assists in 54 regular-season games and has one goal and two assists in six playoff games.

Smith has played a vital role in helping turn around the Bruins second line alongside David Krejci and Taylor Hall. The trio has played very well together, owning a 3.09 expected goals for per 60 minutes in the playoffs thus far.

The Bruins and Islanders are tied 1-1 in the best-of-seven series.

More must-reads: