The Bruins began their adjustment to the quirky realities the NHL restart Thursday night with a 4-1 exhibition loss to the Blue Jackets from the bubble in Toronto. Considering that the Presidents’ Trophy winner hadn’t played a game since March 10, it’s hardly alarming that they looked out of practice.
They will, however, have to shake the rust off in a hurry since round-robin play — yes, one of those new realities — among the top four seeds in each conference commences Sunday at 2 p.m. against the Flyers.
As the NHL reignites its season and soon dives headlong into the Stanley Cup playoffs, it’s not just those playing the games that have adjustments to make.