Brad Marchand's status revealed ahead of highly anticipated Canadiens-Panthers clash

The context is already charged, because the Canadiens are facing the Florida Panthers at the worst possible time.

Last Tuesday, in Florida, Marchand hit Mike Matheson in the head in overtime. He was assessed a roughing penalty, and Montreal went on to win 3-2 on the power play.

The following day, the league announced neither a fine, nor a suspension, nor a hearing. As a result, the crowd has kept it in mind, and you can already feel it around the city. In Montreal, this kind of story does not fade quickly.

Adding another layer on Thursday is the uncertainty surrounding his condition. Marchand left a game against Toronto in the third period, and his coach spoke of a precautionary measure. Since then, he has been considered day-to-day, and everyone is watching the lineup sheet.

Even if the decision will be made at warmups, his importance to the Panthers' offense is clear. Marchand leads the Panthers with 46 points and is tied for the team lead in goals with 23. On his side, Sam Reinhart also has 23 goals and follows closely with 44 points.

So yes, if he is missing from the lineup, it changes the atmosphere from the visitors' very first shift.

But Montreal has only one response that matters, regardless of the scenario: get two points.

There you have it.

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