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2018 Rookie Showcase: Canadiens vs. Maple Leafs — Game thread, start time, TV schedule, and how to watch

Posted on by Justin Blades

How to watch

Start time: 3:00 PM EDT / 12:00 PM PDT
Online: RDS.ca, Canadiens.com

After a summer of hype surrounding the Montreal Canadiens revamped prospect pool, the players finally took to the ice on Friday night to face off against the best the Ottawa Senators had to offer. Unfortunately, they weren’t able to make much of an impact in what was the first game among professionals for many of them, and they came away without scoring a goal in a 4-0 loss.

There were still some positive showings from the Habs rookies. Josh Brook showed a lot of the talent he brings to the organization, and followed up on his claims earlier this summer about needing to be much better in the 2018-19 season. Lukas Vejdemo showed some of the defensive acumen that earned him praise in the SHL, while Will Bitten and free-agent signee Hayden Verbeek showed off their speed when given the chance.

Today, Michael McNiven takes the crease for the team as they welcome the prospects of the Toronto Maple Leafs to Place Bell for the final game of the weekend’s official slate. Coming to the showcase as lean as he’s ever been, he’ll be eager to put last season’s disappointing showing behind him with a stronger sophomore campaign.

After missing Friday’s action with a minor injury, this afternoon may see Cale Fleury enter the lineup for the first time. One of the more NHL-ready prospects is still making his case to earn an entry-level contract for this season, and a solid performance may force a decision in his favour.

It’s unclear whether Jake Evans will play, but he is back with the team after being taken off the ice in the first game, hopefully with no lingering effects that will prevent him from taking part in Canadiens training camp.

See the 30 players who will be taking part.

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