As we mentioned earlier today, forward Patrik Laine was absent for the Montreal Canadiens this morning.
He wasn’t the only one, as no fewer than four players were missing from the Canadiens’ practice.
The practice took place at the Bell Centre, as it is game day in Montreal, with the San Jose Sharks in town.
In short, the five absent players were Josh Anderson, Kirby Dach (injured), Patrik Laine, David Savard, and Brendan Gallagher.
We know that Anderson is dealing with some discomfort, though he will ultimately play tonight as confirmed earlier today.
We know that Kirby Dach is injured, we know that David Savard is dealing with discomfort since he has missed several practices recently, and we know that Brendan Gallagher had an obligation. But in the case of Patrik Laine, there was no clear reason for his absence.
This raised some questions.
The Canadiens announce that today’s practice was optional
That explains it.
– Montreal Canadiens
Laine appears to be the “only” player who simply chose not to take the ice this morning, without an apparent reason.
Let’s not forget that Martin St-Louis’ squad will indeed face the San Jose Sharks at home tonight, starting at 7:00 PM.
Laine will be in the lineup, alongside Alex Newhook and the impressive young center Owen Beck.