Canadiens provide encouraging update on Mike Matheson following injury

The Canadiens hit the ice in Raleigh this Friday, with a reduced group.

Following the 7-5 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes, the team held an optional practice.

The team then kept its travel plan intact toward St. Louis, ahead of Saturday afternoon's game. In total, 14 players put on their skates, and the attendance sheet includes some eye-catching names.

Nick Suzuki was there, along with Oliver Kapanen, Sammy Blais, and Owen Beck. In goal, Jakub Dobes, Jacob Fowler, and Samuel Montembeault also took part in the session.

The defenseman wearing number 8 had been announced out for Thursday's game due to an upper-body injury.

Seeing him at practice, even an optional one, immediately brings his situation back into the discussion, and it's very encouraging moving forward.

It appears to confirm what Jakub Dobes mentioned after the game against the Hurricanes.

As for the other defensemen present, Adam Engstrom, Lane Hutson, Jayden Struble, and Arber Xhekaj were also listed. It gives a clear picture of who wanted to get some movement in before getting back on the plane.

Next stop: St. Louis, to face the Blues on Saturday afternoon.

With the infirmary already quite full, every presence on the ice becomes a small victory, especially when it comes to Mike Matheson.

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