A visit by the Red Wings on December 2nd always brings to mind the 11-1 defeat the Canadians suffered on the same evening in 1995. A setback that started the saga that led to the departure of Patrick Roy. It would be surprising if we experienced such a thaw tonight. On one side or the other. In contrast to the former Wings, both teams are in a rebuilding process. Although Michigan officials may be a little further along.
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Here are five things to keep in mind in today’s duel.
1. Jake Allen looking for victory
Now it’s Jake Allen’s turn to fill the starting goalie chair. The New Brunswickers will be looking to end an ugly losing streak. Allen has not been able to enjoy a win in his last five games. His last win was on October 28th. He also won the Molson Cup in October. Things changed quickly.
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2. Newhook out, Monahan promoted
Alex Newhook’s absence (10 to 12 weeks) will force Martin St-Louis to make changes to his lineup. Since the Habs have recalled Mitchell Stephens, a center, Sean Monahan will be promoted to the right side of the front row. Additionally, Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki will be reunited in the same unit.
Nick Suzuki: “It’s nice to play with him. He pays attention to details and presents himself in the right places. He is an intelligent player, both with and without the puck. It makes my life easier when I play with him.”
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3. A worrying drought
Without the contribution of the big offense it is difficult to win games in this league. The Canadian has not achieved the goal for eight games now. The Habs have been shut out by one or two players in their last 23 games.
Sean Monahan: “Special teams are critical. They can win your games or make you lose them. We want to give our best when we play with another player. We have to score points and give the team momentum.”
Getty Images via AFP
4. The Red Wings on the move
The Red Wings come to Montreal in the middle of a winning streak. Derek Lalonde’s side have won four of their last five games. David Perron took advantage of this to score the 300th goal of his career. In addition, the Wings have one of the most productive attacks in the league with 81 goals (4th place).
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5. No Patrick Kane
Patrick Kane, the newest addition to the Red Wings roster, will not be wearing a uniform. The 35-year-old American, who signed a one-year contract with the Michigan team earlier this week, is still recovering from hip surgery he underwent in early June. He is expected to be used again in Detroit in the coming days.
Photo Bruce Bennett/Getty Images/AFP
PROBABLY CANADIAN EDUCATION:
- Caufield-Suzuki-Monahan
- Gallagher-Dvorak-Anderson
- Pearson-Evans-Slafkovsky
- Ylönen – Stephens – Armia
- Matheson-Lindstrom
- Guhle-Barron
- Struble – Kovacevic