The Canadiens landed in the U.S. captain’s chair earlier today.
Tomorrow, Martin St-Louis’ team will play its first playoff game since the 2021 season. Many will be playing in their first career playoff game, including Kirby Dach, who made the trip with the team.
No, number 77 won’t be playing, but he’ll be supporting his club from the stands. And don’t hold your breath: Dach won’t be playing in the playoffs, and we’re still waiting for him to start next season.
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In 57 games this season, the center collected 22 points, including 10 goals.
He hasn’t played since February 22 against the Ottawa Senators. Although the CH doesn’t necessarily miss him , he wouldn’t have been out of place in the playoffs. He’s talented, and perhaps with an Ivan Demidov, he would have been a bigger offensive contributor.
Martin St-Louis’ line-up for the first game of the series should remain unchanged from the last regular-season game.
Here are the trios at morning practice:
#GoHabsGo projected lineup ahead of tomorrow’s Game One against the Capitals
Caufield – Suzuki – Slafkovsky
Gallagher – Dvorak – Anderson
Laine – Newhook – Demidov
Heineman – Evans – ArmiaMatheson – Carrier
Guhle – Hutson
Struble – SavardMontembeault
Dobeš– 1909culture (@1909culture) April 20, 2025
Samuel Montembeault will be the automatic goalie.
We still don’t know who his opponent will be in front of the net.
– The Habs are reportedly in business with a Jaccob Slavin.
Watching the Devils vs Canes playoff game & hopefully Adam Nicholas is sending David Reinbacher clips of Jaccob Slavin.
He’s the best defensive defenseman in the NHL, just an absolute dawg who makes it look so effortless. pic.twitter.com/QFBc576rI2
– /r/Habs (@HabsOnReddit) April 20, 2025
– I can imagine.
This will be the second time the Quebecer has faced the CH in the playoffs! https://t.co/IlggzeFhK5
– TVA Sports (@TVASports) April 21, 2025
– Coming up.
NJ coach Sheldon Keefe said Brenden Dillon wanted to return, but was held back by doctors. No update yet on Cody Glass (not Tanner).
– Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) April 21, 2025
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