The injuries to these star players may have prompted Ottawa to field a more physically imposing lineup for the rematch.
The Senators have called up several physical players from their AHL affiliate, including Tyler Boucher, Angus Crookshank, Stephen Halliday, Hayden Hodgson, Cole Reinhardt, Filip Roos, and Donovan Sebrango. While it's unclear if all of them will play, Ottawa is clearly gearing up for a physical, potentially heated game.
Montreal Canadiens head coach Martin St-Louis has also taken precautions, reportedly asking GM Kent Hughes to reach out to Senators GM Steve Staios. St-Louis expressed concerns about player safety, especially considering the injuries seen across the NHL in preseason, notably Patrik Laine's injury, which left a strong impression.
St-Louis commented:
However, St-Louis faces a dilemma: balancing the need to protect his top players with ensuring they are well-prepared for the regular season opener on October 9. With the Canadiens' top line not having played in over a week, holding them back could impact their readiness for the start of the season.
The NHL might step in to diffuse tensions before the game, but how both teams respond on and off the ice will be something to watch closely.
A match not to miss!
Source: TVA Sports
Précautions contre l'équipe rivale: Martin St-Louis veut que Kent Hughes parle au DG des Sénateurs
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Do you think the Montreal Canadiens should call up some of their tough guys too? | ||
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