Yanni Gourde leaves Game 4 after dirty hit by Nick Ritchie

Yanni Gourde got sent into the boards following a dirty hit from Nick Ritchie. Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Lightning forward Yanni Gourde leaves Game 4 vs. Bruins after dirty hit by Nick Ritchie

By Erin Walsh | Last updated 8/29/20

Bruins forward Nick Ritchie has not contributed in any way through Boston's postseason run in the NHL's Toronto bubble, and his hit on Tampa Bay Lightning forward Yanni Gourde in Game 4 on Saturday is proof that head coach Bruce Cassidy shouldn't be slotting him in on David Krejci's left wing.

Ritchie hit Gourde into the boards late in the second period of Game 4, leaving the Bolts forward unable to move.

Nick Ritchie’s hit on Yanni Gourde pic.twitter.com/qm2ULvQHlZ
— Evan Marinofsky (@emarinofsky) August 29, 2020

Gourde exited the game, and Ritchie was assessed a five-minute major penalty for boarding.

Although Gourde didn't record a point in the contest, he's played a significant role for Tampa Bay in both the physical and defensive aspects of the game.

It's not known if Gourde will return to Game 4, though the hit was enough to probably earn Richie a suspension.

If he is suspended, the Bruins could end up turning to the many talented prospects they have waiting in the wings for Game 5 on Monday. Jack Studnicka and Trent Frederic both are waiting for their chance to prove to Cassidy that they deserve a shot.

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