Martin St-Louis makes two interesting decisions ahead of game vs. Wild as lineup changes loom
We have initial announcements from the Montreal Canadiens and Martin St-Louis ahead of tonight's game against the Minnesota Wild.
This morning, the Canadiens reported to work early, and the message is clear.
A few hours before the matchup against the Minnesota Wild, Martin St-Louis imposed a mandatory skate at 10:30 a.m. at the Bell Centre.
It's a decision meant to set the tone, especially when the team is playing at home.
The second decision is visible directly on the ice. Patrik Laine is rotating on the fourth line, alternating with players already used in that role.
When a name like his ends up in that chair, it fuels discussion pretty quickly.
Martin St-Louis is rotating Patrik Laine on the fourth line for now (and Kirby Dach on the first line)
The context makes it even more intriguing.
The Canadiens no longer have much margin before the Olympic break, and every game becomes very important in the NHL playoff race.
In Laine's case, the rotation on the fourth line can mean several things.
It could be a way to get everyone back on the same page, to reward effort, or simply to shake things up and see who responds.
The Wild come in with their own identity, and the Canadiens have every reason to be ready from the very first minute.
The mandatory morning skate is also a way to manage energy, keep habits tight, and avoid a slow start.
So there are several situations to monitor in the next few minutes.
Also read on Montreal Hockey Fanatics :
Martin St-Louis' absence last week was linked to his son's 18th birthday
Martin St-Louis' absence last week was linked to his son's 18th birthday
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JANVIER 20|1364 ANSWERS Martin St-Louis makes two interesting decisions ahead of game vs. Wild as lineup changes loom Should Patrik Laine stay on the fourth line? | ||
| Yes | 812 | 59.5 % |
| No | 552 | 40.5 % |
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