In their last game against the Anaheim Ducks, Claude Julien split up Max Pacioretty and Jonathan Drouin for the first time, and that seems to be something the team will try going against the Florida Panthers tomorrow.
At practice this morning in Brossard, the two were split up and we also saw how the team plans to use the recently recalled duo of Michael McCarron and Nikita Scherbak.
The two former Rocket will play with Alex Galchenyuk.
The new fourth line gives the Canadiens a decidedly skill-heavy trio now.
Les trios du jour.
Byron-Drouin-Lehkonen
Pacioretty-Danault-Shaw
Hudon-Plekanec-Gallagher
Galchenyuk-McCarron-Scherbak— J-F Chaumont (@JFChaumontJDM) October 23, 2017
The Canadiens seem to be going with a balanced offensive approach and each line has dangerous offensive players. Paul Byron may look out of place with Jonathan Drouin and Artturi Lehkonen but he has been the Canadiens most consistent scorer.
Ales Hemsky not at practice. Was hit hard 3 times on Friday. Concussion. @CanadiensMTL #tvasports
— Renaud Lavoie (@renlavoietva) October 23, 2017
After being hit hard several times against the Anaheim Ducks and not returning to the game, Ales Hemsky is likely headed to the IR list with concussion-like symptoms. This is what gave the team the roster spot that allowed the team to recall both McCarron and Scherbak.
Habs defence
Mete-Weber
Alzner-Benn
Davidson-Petry
Morrow— Аrpon Basu (@ArponBasu) October 23, 2017
After sitting out most of the West Coast trip, Brandon Davidson returns to the Canadiens top six alongside Jeff Petry. It’s a promising tandem, after they showed solid flashes in a small sample together the previous year.
Victor Mete continues to take his spot next to Shea Weber for his ninth game, which all but confirms what we all assumed: the rookie will remain in the NHL for the entire season.
