Bruins Send Hamill, Marchand Back to Providence

The Boston Bruins announced that they have assigned center Zach Hamill and forward Brad Marchand to their AHL affiliate in Providence. The move leaves Boston with 22 players on their roster with three days left before the season opener.

The demotion of Hamill and Marchand most likely means that Sobotka has made the team. Could this also mean that David Krejci is close to returning? We'll find out Thursday. For now, enjoy some Krejci hightlights from last season:

Bruins' Krejci Progressing

One of the Boston Bruins breakout performers last season is almost ready to hit to play... he thinks.

David Krejci, who had off-season hip surgery, said he is feeling good and that rehab is going very well. So well in fact that Krejci said he may be available for the season opener against Ovechkin and the Crapitals.

Krejci has been skating on his own for the past couple weeks, and Boston Bruins trainers are adding more to his regimen. He skated briefly yesterday before leaving the ice for off-ice workouts. Having him back in October, as opposed to the earlier late November/Early December time frame that was originally thought, would be a huge boost to the Bruins who would be without Kessel until December (if he is still wearing a Bruins uniform).

“Who knows? I might be ready,’’ said Krejci. “If I’m ready to play, I’ll play. But I don’t want to rush it. I’d rather miss a few games than be out for half the year.’’