Mavrik Bourque nearing return for Nashville Predators ahead of road trip

Nashville Predators are a team in the midst of a season that began as anticipated. After victories against the St. Louis Blues and Montreal Canadiens, they faced challenges against Vegas Golden Knights and Minnesota Wild. However, they were able to secure overtime points against the Toronto Maple Leafs and Ottawa Senators. Currently, Nashville (3-2-3, 9 points) occupies the sixth spot in the Central Division, meeting expectations but not exceeding them.

They are set to play the Boston Bruins on October 21, followed by a game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on October 23. The Predators are then scheduled for five consecutive home games from October 25 to November 3. The general manager, Chris MacFarland, emphasized the importance of the first month of October, stating that a strong start would significantly impact the team's future.

Mavrik Bourque, who is currently day-to-day with an upper body injury, has been actively participating in practices. He played four games before getting injured against the Montreal Canadiens on October 8. At practice on October 21, Bourque was seen engaging in line rushes alongside Jonathan Marchessault and Alex Kerfoot, suggesting he could return soon.

Nashville coach Andrew Brunette expressed excitement about Bourque's potential return and noted that they are hopeful to have him available. Bourque, signed for six years and $33 million in July, is a crucial player for MacFarland's strategy to enhance the Nashville attack. Despite his limited contributions this season, Bourque's chemistry with Marchessault and Kerfoot in training camp and preseason hints at a promising return that could bolster the team's offensive performance.