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Boston Bruins forward Viktor Arvidsson officially making return to lineup

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Austin Sabourin
December 23, 2025 (4:22 PM)

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After missing time with injury, it was confirmed following practice that Arvidsson is set to dress tonight. The winger's return comes at an important moment for a Bruins team searching for consistency and energy.

Reports from morning skate showed Arvidsson back in the mix, while Michael Eyssimont and Jeffrey Viel are expected to come out of the lineup. Boston is clearly prioritizing speed and puck pressure over pure physicality.

Arvidsson's return also coincides with a notable change on the blue line. Recently acquired defenseman Vladislav Kolyachonok is expected to make his Bruins debut, paired with Mason Lohrei.

That pairing signals experimentation. Boston wants to see what Kolyachonok can bring right away, and Lohrei's mobility makes him a logical partner for a debuting defender.

The Bruins have shuffled bodies frequently this season, largely due to injuries. Getting Arvidsson back allows the coaching staff to slide players into more defined roles instead of patchwork combinations.

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Viktor Arvidsson return reshapes Bruins lineup

From a fan perspective, this is quietly encouraging news. Arvidsson brings pace and a direct north-south game that has been missing at times during his absence.

He is not expected to solve everything, but his ability to forecheck and create off the rush fits well against a Canadiens team that thrives when games slow down.

The decision to sit Eyssimont and Viel reinforces that idea. Both bring effort, but Arvidsson offers a higher offensive ceiling and more experience in structured roles.

On defense, all eyes will be on Kolyachonok. Waiver claims rarely arrive with fanfare, but opportunity matters, and this is a clean slate start in a rivalry game.

Previously on Boston Hockey Insider

A last-minute roster addition was announced ahead of the Bruins-Canadiens game

David Pastrnak issues a statement on the Bruins rivalry game tonight: "It's a must win game"

Boston Bruins make multiple lineup changes: Recently acquired defenseman to make his debut

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Boston Bruins forward Viktor Arvidsson officially making return to lineup

After missing time with injury, it was confirmed following practice that Arvidsson is set to dress tonight. The winger's return comes at an important moment for a Bruins team searching for consistency and energy.

Viktor Arvidsson return reshapes Bruins lineup

Are you excited to see Viktor Arvidsson back in the Bruins lineup?