Bruins Edge Closer to Likely Ristuccia Exit

With the Boston Bruins in the final year of their lease at Ristuccia Arena, it’s been well-documented over the last year that the team’s future in town was up in the air. With the season now over, the team leaving behind its current practice facility for greener pastures is now an even stronger possibility.

During a Friday press conference, Bruins President Cam Neely said no decision has been made on where the team will practice next year, but added that the team is shopping around.

“If we’re going to be the organization we strive to be, our practice facility needs to be upgraded,” said Neely.

According to the Boston Globe, one scenario for the team could be practicing at a new facility in Brighton.

Neely declined to comment specifically on what conversations the team has had with other potential arenas, but said he expects a decision to come in the near future.

The team is slated to return to Ristuccia Arena on July 10 when it hosts its annual development camp for its young players.

Wilmington’s Fitzgerald Continues Recovery

During a press conference on Saturday in advance of the NHL draft, Bruins General Manager Peter Chiarelli told reporters that director of amateur scouting Scott Fitzgerald was recently released form Spaulding Rehabilitation following a spring car accident.

The Wilmington resident was seriously injured when another vehicle drove into his lane and struck his car head on. Fitzgerald underwent a long list of surgeries and still has a long road ahead.

“He’s good,” said Chiarelli. “He’s not coming to the draft. We thought maybe we could get him to the draft. We had our amateur meetings at Spaulding Rehab, and they were great. We had them in the boardroom, and they were terrific. Fitzy was in a bed and participated, and he’s home now. So he’s doing well.”

Fitzgerald could also receive more good news on Sunday. According to scouts, including his own reports, Fitzgerald’s nephew, Ryan Fitzgerald of North Reading, could be drafted in the second of third round.