Photo credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
Sunday in Pittsburgh, Joe Veleno did not finish the game, and it raises questions.
If many already believed that Veleno would be the one affected by the arrival of Phillip Danault via trade, his possible concussion likely settles the matter, at least in the short term.
Danault has 0 goals and 5 assists in 30 games this season, after recording 43 points in 80 games last year, but he truly seems ready to bring a spark to Martin St-Louis’ lineup.
Joe Veleno removed from the lineup, in favor of Phillip Danault?
The issue is that Veleno’s health status is not publicly clear.
Many noticed an odd contact late in the third period, followed by his departure to the locker room, but the Canadiens have not confirmed whether he was evaluated under the concussion protocol.
In cases like this, the team often waits before delivering a verdict, but does that really matter here? Who should be the one affected by Danault’s arrival?
The simplest candidate to come out is Veleno, because Danault is coming in as a center and the Canadiens like to keep an extra forward.
Martin St-Louis has to make a decision before an important divisional game, as many believe Samuel Blais should not be the one taken out of the lineup.
“Which forward will come out of the Montreal lineup tomorrow to insert Phillip Danault?
Samuel Blais (1 assist, +1, one shot on goal, one blocked shot and six hits in 8:32) does not deserve to come out of the lineup.
Owen Beck neither.
Will Joe Veleno, who was unable to finish last night’s game, be fit to play in Boston?”
– DansLesCoulisses
This will be a situation to monitor over the next few hours, but I really have the feeling that it will indeed be Veleno who pays the price.
Game time is set for 7:00 p.m. ET tonight at TD Garden in Boston.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics