The Boston Bruins could be welcoming back forwards David Backes and Patrice Bergeron in the near future.

Both players practiced on Tuesday with Backes, ahead of schedule, practicing for the first time since he was diagnosed with diverticulitis on October 5th.

Bergeron, who was wearing a non-contact jersey, suffered a lower-body injury during practice on October 3rd has not played this season.

Backes and Bergeron each could return when the Bruins host the Vancouver Canucks on Thursday, according to Boston head coach Bruce Cassidy.

“I think we took a nice step today being able to skate with the guys,” Backes said after practice.

“I was like a kid in a candy store before practice.”

Backes is still uncertain on when he will return.

“So to pick up from not sweating for six, seven days to get back, to be on the ice, to feeling the way I feel today … I got a little work in while the guys were away, so progress certainly,” Backes said.

“Return? We’ll see.”

Backes also commented on his diverticulitis condition.

“Trying to gather information and be as smart as I can,” Backes stated.

“So that I am available as often as possible and as productive as possible.”

Bergeron said it felt good to be back on the ice and that practicing with his team was comfortable.

“Today was one of those where I wanted to see where I was at,” Bergeron said about Tuesday’s practice.

“We felt like were comfortable with doing drills and being with the team. Didn’t necessarily know what kind of practice [Cassidy] had for us. So I went along and felt good, so kept going.”