Canadiens Fans React as Two Important Names Sit Out Preseason Finale
The Montreal Canadiens have released their lineup for the game against the Ottawa Senators, and two absences are getting a lot of attention.
Ivan Demidov and Mike Matheson will not be in uniform tonight, as confirmed by Martin St-Louis earlier today.
The club clearly wants to avoid taking risks after a hotly contested game earlier this week, filled with questionable hits and tension.
Some are calling it a strategic choice to keep their forces healthy before the real start of the season next Wednesday.
Martin St-Louis Takes No Risks With Ivan Demidov and Mike Matheson Ahead of Montreal Canadiens Game
I truly believe the Habs have nothing to gain by losing two such important players in a simple preseason game.
According to many, Matheson is the team's defensive pillar, while Demidov has already won over fans with his offensive flair and calm presence on the ice.
As one fan noted on X:
"I'm glad they're not taking any chances with Demidov and Matheson tonight.
Both are very important to this team."
Both are very important to this team."
And it's hard to disagree.
It's no secret that the last game against the Senators was marked by fights and borderline plays. Nobody wanted to relive a similar scenario.
Even Arber and Florian's mother, Simona, sent a message to the team ahead of tonight's game, wishing them a safe and fun match.
On top of that, this decision will help the development of some young players, notably Adam Engstrom, who will get one last chance to prove himself before the final cuts.
In my opinion, I think this is a good thing. The real test will come Wednesday against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
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