Two Canadiens Players Absent From Practice Today, Press Conference Coming Shortly

Brendan Gallagher and David Savard are missing as both are taking a treatment day.

The Canadiens will also hold a press conference immediately after the morning skate, where we may learn more about their health status, particularly David Savard.

Veteran David Savard practiced with his teammates yesterday morning in preparation for the game against the Columbus Blue Jackets. He answered questions from reporters afterward, and everything seemed perfectly normal-but then, a surprise.

He never hit the ice last night, and Jayden Struble took his spot in Martin St-Louis' lineup.

Clearly, something happened with David Savard between his noon press conference and the 7:00 PM game.

See the official announcement:

Let's hope Savard and Gallagher can return to 100% as soon as possible, as both are obviously key players for the Canadiens' success.

David Savard, 34, has four points in 17 games this season, with a -5 rating and four penalty minutes.

Brendan Gallagher, 32, has seven goals in 18 games this season, making him the team's second-highest scorer, behind Cole Caufield.

Both are excellent veterans who could generate interest across the NHL in the coming weeks but remain essential for Montreal's lineup.

Details to follow.