After a disappointing start to his career with Boston Erik Haula has thrived since being paired with Taylor Hall and David Pastrnak.

Boston gets balanced scoring, including two goals from its fourth line, in a 5-1 victory.

In its first game since Dec. 16, Boston erases a two-goal deficit in the third period and beats Buffalo on Charlie Coyle’s overtime goal.

Coach Bruce Cassidy breaks up Boston’s top line of Brad Marchand, Patrice Bergeron and David Pastrnak to create more depth.

Boston is schedule to play for the first time in two weeks on Saturday.

Boston’s Brad Marchand is one of many saying a choice should have been offered before barring players from going to the Olympics.

The Bruins have not played since Dec. 16 and now have until the end of April to jam in 56 games, unless the league extends the season.

Charlie Coyle is joined by Taylor Hall, Brandon Carlo and Oskar Steen in the COVID-19 protocols for Boston, which hopes to return to play Wednesday.

Whether it’s Charlie McAvoy playing for Team USA or David Pastrnak for Czechia, Boston players are saddened by another missed opportunity to play in the Olympics.

Boston has 10 players in the COVID protocol, though it hopes to have some of the back in time for practice on Sunday.