For the first time in his postseason career, veteran Boston Bruins forward David Backes will be a healthy scratch for Thursday's Game 1 clash against the Toronto Maple Leafs, according to Joe McDonald of The Athletic.

The 34-year-old did not skate with any of the four forward lines during Wednesday's practice in Boston.

Backes scored seven goals and added 13 assists over 70 games in 2018-19, his lowest point total of his 13-year NHL career.

He netted two goals and an assist over 12 postseason games last season as the Bruins took out the Leafs in seven games in the opening series.