Unexpected reinforcement for the Canadiens: a forward is training without any restrictions, and it is Rafaël Harvey-Pinard

While the Canadiens are running low on forward depth, and veterans Joel Armia and Tanner Pearson might leave this week, a winger could unexpectedly make a return to the lineup.

Indeed, Rafaël Harvey-Pinard was practicing with his teammates on Friday morning, with no restrictions on contact. He hasn't received medical clearance yet, but it's overall very encouraging.

We didn't expect his return for weeks, but here he is at the final stage of his rehabilitation.




It's also worth noting that Brendan Gallagher was noticeably absent, having sustained an injury in the third period of Thursday night's game. He was undergoing a day of treatments, which is not surprising.

Over the past two seasons, when one player returns from injury, two others seem to get injured. We'll see if Gally will be able to play on Saturday night in Tampa Bay.