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Montreal Canadiens recall defenceman Ryan Johnston from St. John’s IceCaps

With Andrei Markov staying in Montreal, the Habs get some insurance on defence.

By Justin Blades
NHL: Preseason-Washington Capitals at Montreal Canadiens Jean-Yves Ahern-USA TODAY Sports

With news that Andrei Markov isn’t quite ready to play yet, the Montreal Canadiens recalled defenceman Ryan Johnston from the St. John’s IceCaps.

After Joel Hanley got a chance in Markov’s absence before the break, the Habs have decided to go with a different option for their southern road trip. Johnston got some time with the team last season, playing three games and registering one shot on goal.

Johnston will likely sit out all three games versus Eastern Conference opponents over the next week, merely being on the team for insurance in case of yet another injury. He could get some time in if either Mark Barberio or Zach Redmond struggle on the third pairing.

The Canadiens next game in Wednesday night versus the Tampa Bay Lightning.

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