Plot twist at Canadiens' practice: a key forward is already back, and it's very fortunate for Alex Newhook
With Sean Monahan traded, the Canadiens have a significant gap at center. Nick Suzuki and Jake Evans are the only ones in that position.
Kent Hughes recalled Lucas Condotta, but he and Evans are likely to play on the 3rd and 4th lines. There is still a void on the 2nd line. Youngster Brandon Gignac signed a contract this morning, but he only has one NHL game under his belt.
However, there is good news as Alex Newhook was back at practice with his teammates. Recall that he suffered an ankle sprain and was expected to return to play early in March. This is an excellent unexpected development this morning.
Not only is number 15 back with his teammates, but he was there as a regular participant. This suggests that he is getting closer to a return to play, and it shouldn't be for several more weeks.
I have a feeling that if he doesn't return on Tuesday, the Canadiens will officially announce the presence of Brandon Gignac. However, nothing is certain yet on that front.
Interesting fact: Do you know why Alex Newhook's number 15 is so popular with the Canadiens, and many players have worn it? It was the original number of Maurice Richard. He later requested a change to number 9 after the birth of his daughter, who weighed 9 lbs.
| POLL | ||
Do you think Alex Newhook is good enough to be the Canadiens' second-line center in the long term? | ||
| Yes | 594 | 64.5 % |
| No | 327 | 35.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
