Captain Brad Marchand is back in full swing and revitalizing the Bruins’ training

“I'm fine,” Marchand said, noting that he has fully recovered from the elbow, groin and sports hernia surgeries he underwent during the offseason.

Marchand's presence as a full participant increases everyone's intensity.

“It’s amazing how much energy and competitiveness he brings to training all by himself,” said coach Jim Montgomery.

Morgan Geekthe right winger played in a line with Marchand and Center Charlie Coylecould feel the extra jolt.

“He's taken on a few guys and the level of competition is a lot higher,” Geekie said. “It seems like every shift is your last shift with him. So he performs every day and it shows and that's why he's been around so long and that's why he's the leader that he is.”

“It’s an enrichment for everyone and, above all, it’s great fun for me to play with a guy like that.”

Marchand said his fitness level was good, which was also reflected in his fighting strength.

“I love being out there,” he said. “And I think the most important thing about our group is that we're competitive in practice and the pace is usually fast, especially in combat drills and competitive drills, you want to show off.”

“There are always moments in training where you might be a little sore or tired and you're just trying to get your reps clean. But in the competition drills we all want to go the extra mile and it seems like Monty does a good job of incorporating them at the right times.

“But I think we're all excited to get out there and get closer to the season.”

Geekie in a good place

Geekie, who set career-highs with 17 goals and 22 assists last season, is enjoying his training as a top-six striker. Competition for the spots alongside Coyle and Marchand is fierce and the 26-year-old is looking to maximize his appearances.

“I certainly don't take it for granted,” Geekie said. “I think it's fun, it's good competition and everyone works for a spot, but I just try to come here every day and work and work and get a little better, and whoever that is with, that's not my decision. I'm just here to play and do my best.”

Geekie stepped up his game towards the end of the season and took it into the playoffs. He showed his physicality and was solid in all three zones.

He thanked the coaching staff for giving him the opportunities and confidence to succeed.

“I can't thank them enough. They helped me learn a new system and get used to everything,” he said. “It's fun to take that into the summer and know where to play. And I think I have a lot more to offer than I've shown. So it's fun to continue to grow as a player and just try to get better every day.”

Marchand is optimistic about the prospect of working more closely with Geekie, who supports the puck well and uses his size and strength to create space for himself and his teammates.

“I love playing with the Geeks,” Marchand said. “He's so great in so many different areas. He can hold on to pucks, make plays and shoot, and he's great in the corners.”

“I think he complements our line really well. We haven't played many games together yet, so we'll work on that. But I've always really liked his game after playing with him a bit last year. I really enjoyed that. I'm sure he'll make big strides this year.”

Cautious approach

Justin Brazeauwho scored his first preseason goal in Tuesday's win over the Capitals, was assigned a maintenance day, according to Montgomery. Elias Lindholm And Max Jones also remained out, but Montgomery gave a positive prognosis for his team's health. “We have some guys who have made some improvements over the course of this training camp, and right now pretty much everyone you could want is there, it's nothing serious,” the coach said. “It's just taking a little bit of time and we're being a little cautious. We're hoping to get some guys back by Saturday, but next week everyone who hasn't been in practice will be back for sure.”

The Man in Red

One player who returned was Edward Jacksonwho got a scratch a few weeks ago at the Prospects Challenge in Buffalo. He was wearing a red jersey … Continue Adam Mechurawho played last season with the Maine Mariners and Providence Bruins, made his camp debut … Other regulars are expected to be back in action Thursday against the Rangers at Madison Square Garden. “Broadway is a place for showtime, so expect (David) Pastrana in the lineup,” Montgomery said.

Jim McBride can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him @globejimmcbride.