Canadiens make first decision ahead of game vs. Panthers as goalie decision looms

This morning, there was no morning skate at the Bell Centre.

Following a win against the Calgary Flames the night before, Martin St-Louis chose to give his group some breathing room. And it comes right on the morning of another game, this time against the Florida Panthers, again in Montreal.

It is a decision that always gets people talking, because fans want clues.

When there is no session, there are no line combinations to watch, no rotations to break down, and no easy scoop to grab from rinkside (especially regarding the identity of the starting goaltender).

The message is still fairly clear. The Canadiens want to manage energy, avoid putting too much strain on the legs, and arrive at the game with some juice.

After a win the night before, this is not the time to turn the morning into a marathon. It also comes during a week where the injury list has been a talking point.

We have seen some players return to the ice recently, and a practice could have given us some big answers, but we will have to wait.

The game against Florida remains a major test, period. The schedule waits for no one.

We are especially eager to get two answers heading into tonight's game.

1- Who will be in goal?

2- Will Kaiden Guhle be in the lineup?

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