Boston Bruins left wing Brad Marchand (upper body) hopes to return from a two-game absence on Friday against Florida. He was a full participant in Thursday's practice. Officially, the team continues to consider Marchand as day-to-day, but he worked on the first power-play unit during Thursday's practice session, which is a good sign regarding his potential comeback. The Bruins captain is the team's joint top-scorer in the playoffs with 10 points, boasting three goals and seven assists.

Carolina Hurricanes defenseman Brett Pesce (lower body) will miss a ninth consecutive game on Thursday against the Rangers. He was back in practice on Wednesday but isn't yet ready to play. Pesce has been out for three weeks with a lower-body injury since getting hurt in Game 2 against the Islanders in the first round of the playoffs. Tony DeAngelo has covered for him in the lineup. The former Ranger has posted two assists with seven hits and four blocks in the second-round series.

Edmonton Oilers forward Adam Henrique (ankle) will remain out for Thursday's Game 5 against Vancouver, but he is close to returning, according to head coach Kris Knoblauch. Henrique has been out for three of the last four games while dealing with an ankle injury. He has totaled two points (one goal, one assist) in six playoff games this year. Connor Brown has filled the open spot in the lineup, but the 30-year-old winger has only played limited minutes on the fourth line and hasn't yet registered any points in the series against the Canucks.

Edmonton Oilers goaltender Calvin Pickard will maintain his spot between the sticks for Thursday's Game 5 against Vancouver. He makes a second consecutive start after replacing Stuart Skinner in Game 4. Pickard made his first career Stanley Cup Playoffs start on Tuesday and impressed by saving 19 of 21 shots in a 3-2 win. The 32-year-old will likely have a busier night at the office on Thursday, as the Canucks are on home ice and desperate to win with the series tied at two.