Crucial Decision Time Approaches Swiftly for the Montreal Canadiens
The Montreal Canadiens are facing a crucial decision time as the regular season approaches. Recent roster changes have set the stage for a challenging few days for head coach Martin St. Louis.
Roster Adjustments and Player Returns
The Canadiens have recently reassigned forward Owen Beck and goaltender Jacob Fowler to the Laval Rocket. This move was necessary to allow defenseman Kaiden Guhle and forward Jake Evans to rejoin the main roster.
As the team prepares for the upcoming matches, St. Louis will need to make some difficult decisions due to an overflowing roster. Currently, the Canadiens must adhere to the NHL’s limit of 23 active players. With multiple injured players returning, this presents a conundrum for the management.
Recent Lineup Configuration
In their last game, the forward lines were arranged as follows:
- Caufield – Suzuki – Texier
- Slafkovsky – Kapanen – Demidov
- Gallagher – Danault – Anderson
- Bolduc – Evans – Veleno
Impending Player Returns
Key players are set to make their comebacks shortly. Forward Kirby Dach is officially ready to return, while Patrik Laine has resumed full practices, wearing a regular jersey. Additionally, Alex Newhook is also back from injury.
Once Laine returns, the team will exceed the 23-player limit, prompting General Manager Kent Hughes to make some tough choices.
Potential Roster Decisions
Several pressing questions need addressing:
- Will the Canadiens risk losing Samuel Blais to waivers, despite his contributions to the lineup?
- Will Joe Veleno find himself on the chopping block?
- Could Brendan Gallagher be removed from the active roster?
- Is there a possibility of placing Patrik Laine on waivers?
These decisions will significantly impact the team’s dynamics moving forward as the season unfolds. What lineup will the Canadiens opt for with all forwards healthy remains a topic of speculation.
