Montreal Canadiens right wing Brendan Gallagher (11) shoots the puck against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the first period at Bell Centre.

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Following a narrow win over the Florida Panthers, several key developments are expected for the Montreal Canadiens ahead of a crucial matchup.

We could have expected the players to get a day off to recharge their batteries, but no!

Head coach Martin St-Louis has other plans in mind.

As reported by Priyanta Emrith on X this morning, Martin St-Louis has decided to hold a practice at 11:30 a.m. at the Brossard sports complex.

Because it will already give us strong indications about the expected lineup for tomorrow night’s game against Tampa Bay.

Indeed, the Canadiens are preparing to play a game of critical importance against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The stakes are simple: securing first place in the Atlantic Division.

There’s no slowing down at this stage of the season.

Brendan Gallagher’s usage at practice could signal lineup decision vs Lightning

This practice session will be particularly interesting to follow for observers on site, as there will be several things to monitor regarding line combinations.

After seeing Martin St-Louis shake things up with his forward lines and defensive pairings last night, it remains to be seen whether he will keep those same units or make further adjustments ahead of the matchup against the Lightning.

But the biggest storyline of the day undoubtedly concerns veteran Brendan Gallagher.

Will he practice on a regular line, which would indicate an imminent return to the lineup, or will he skate as an extra?

The answers will come at 11:30!

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Martin St-Louis makes first key decision ahead of crucial game vs Tampa Bay Lightning

Do you believe Brendan Gallagher will return to the starting lineup for the crucial game against the Tampa Bay Lightning?