Boston Places Center Matthew Poitras on IR With Lower-Body Injury
Boston placed center Matthew Poitras on injured reserve Sunday, with the move retroactive to Sept. 22, because of a lower-body injury. Coach Marco Sturm said Poitras is improving each day. The 22-year-old played one preseason game and carries a cap charge of roughly $30,990 while on IR due to his two-way contract and limited NHL time last season.
Boston’s decision came during its last roster reductions before Monday’s deadline. Poitras, 22, exited practice early on Sept. 22 and was initially called day-to-day. He had appeared in one exhibition game, skating between Attilio Biasca and Lukas Reichel and helping Boston control possession; he also won an offensive-zone draw that preceded Charlie McAvoy’s tying goal.
The 2022 second-rounder recorded 15 points in 33 games as a rookie in 2023-24 before a shoulder injury ended his season in February. He has since moved between Boston and Providence and no longer has waiver exemption. While on IR, his two-way deal and three NHL games last season limit his cap charge to $30,990.
The injury may affect Boston’s center depth and give other forwards preseason opportunities. For Poitras, another absence could slow his development and reduce his chances of sticking in the NHL once healthy. Fans and fantasy players may see short-term uncertainty, while the Bruins could face roster and waiver decisions that ripple through their AHL affiliate.