Tomorrow’s Globe:
REST STOP
Pastrnak eyes midseason break
His offensive production considerably diminished thus far in 2024-25, David Pastrnak, an ever-proud Czech, didn’t hesitate a fraction of a second when asked if he’ll welcome the 10-day rest come February due to Czechia not participating in the 4 Nations Face-Off.
“Yes,” said Pastrnak, his broad smile and decided lack of further explanation speaking for him. “Yeah . . . can’t wait.”
Pastrnak, 28, banged home 108 goals and collected 223 points the last two seasons. Entering the faceoff Saturday with the Sabres, he was on pace for 30 goals and 82 points — solid numbers, but not the dominant force he has been since emerging as one of the game’s elite scorers.
Is he welcoming the break simply as a function of fatigue?
“Nah, I feel great, honestly,” said Pastrnak. “But you know, it’s a long season, so the break, I haven’t had those days [off] the last couple of years so it will be nice to recharge and spend time with the family and get your body ready for the second half of the season.”
Upon restarting their schedule out of the 4 Nations respite, the Bruins will have 25 games remaining on the regular-season schedule. A rejuvenated Pastrnak, back producing at his 2022-24 rate of return, could be the biggest factor in determining whether the Bruins clinch a postseason spot.
“Listen, we are very proud of wearing our jersey,” said Pastrnak, asked if he felt most of the Czech players anticipated the February break with equal enthusiasm. “Any time we get to play for our country, it’s enjoyable and we are honored. I am happy the NHL is going to the Olympics [Italy ‘26] and I just try to look at the positives. Obviously, that’s very far away . . . so I’m not focusing on that yet.”
