Backes missing from Bruins’ morning skate in Toronto

TORONTO – While Patrice Bergeron looked perfectly healthy and spry getting through morning skate at the Air Canada Centre ahead of tonight’s big game vs. the Maple Leafs, it was another member of that line missing from the ice.

David Backes was missing from the ice during morning skate. Instead, it was Jimmy Hayes skating on the right side with Bergeron and Brad Marchand while it looked like Noel Acciari was going to draw back in on the fourth line as well.

Bruce Cassidy said Backes "was a little under the weather" this morning, so he'll be a game-time decision. Cassidy also said he expects the 32-year-old to play tonight, so he'd obviously replace Hayes up front if he's able to suit up.

There was some question as to Bergeron's availability after he missed practice on Sunday, but he was a full participant in morning skate.

We’ll update when we get word on an update for Backes, and whether it’s got anything to do with the knee issue from the Calgary road win.

Here are the projected Bruins line combos and D-pairings vs. Toronto based on morning skate: