Bruins coach counting on Chara returning to lineup Thursday after 19-game absence

It appears as though the big man is back, albeit unofficially at this point.

Boston Bruins defenseman Zdeno Chara practiced with teammates in advance of Thursday's game against the Chicago Blackhawks. Head coach Claude Julien said the big man isn't officially in the lineup, but he's certainly counting on it.

Chara missed the past 19 games with a torn PCL in his left knee. He recorded two goals and one assist with 28 shots through the first nine games of the season.

The Bruins hold a two-point advantage in the race for the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, so Chara's return could not come at a better time.