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Canadiens expected to get much-needed reinforcements tonight vs. Senators


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Elias Edmonson
January 17, 2026  (11:57)
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Dec 13, 2025; New York, New York, USA; Montréal Canadiens center Jake Evans (71) celebrates after scoring a goal in the first period against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images
Photo credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

We have a last-minute statement from the head coach of the Montreal Canadiens, Martin St-Louis.

He has just confirmed, during a press conference, that center Jake Evans should normally return to play as early as tonight against the Ottawa Senators.
Another forward will therefore have to be removed from the lineup, if it's confirmed, and that's where things are going to get very interesting.

Jake Evans is expected to return tonight, barring an issue in warmup

We'll be watching this closely for you.
"Martin St. Louis says decisions will be made after warmup but Jake Evans probably in."

- Eric Engels, Sportsnet

I have a feeling it'll be Joe Veleno who comes out of the lineup in favor of Jake Evans, but some are mentioning names like Samuel Blais, Phillip Danault, and Brendan Gallagher.
I can't wait to see what happens next!
"I think Jake is going to play." - Martin St-Louis

Jake Evans is probably returning to the lineup tonight, but not Kirby Dach or Patrik Laine.

We don't know who will come out if Evans plays. - Patrick Friolet
Martin St-Louis did indeed indicate that important decisions will be made after warmup.
That means that tonight, we may have to wait until the very last minute to know the exact lineup.
If Evans is indeed in uniform, as Martin St-Louis believes, another forward will have to give up his spot.
A day like that changes the mood in the locker room for some guys.
You prepare as if you're playing, even if you're not sure, and you watch the clock tick down, telling yourself it's going to be decided right before puck drop.
Details to follow.
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Canadiens expected to get much-needed reinforcements tonight vs. Senators

Who will win tonight?


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