Nick Suzuki is out, and Martin St-Louis has revealed a dramatically different Montreal Canadiens lineup ahead of Friday's game against the Chicago Blackhawks.
The Canadiens are facing a major test after Suzuki was placed on injured reserve, ending his remarkable streak of 546 consecutive NHL games.
Making matters worse, Ivan Demidov is also unavailable, leaving Montreal without two important members of its top six.
St-Louis has responded by moving Oliver Kapanen between Cole Caufield and Juraj Slafkovsky on the first line, giving the young center an enormous responsibility.
Alex Newhook will center Chris Kreider and Josh Anderson, while Phillip Danault joins Alexandre Texier and Zachary Bolduc on the third line.
The fourth unit features Kirby Dach alongside Jake Evans and Florian Xhekaj. Meanwhile, Owen Beck has been recalled from the Laval Rocket to provide another option down the middle.
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Suzuki's absence changes everything for Montreal
Kapanen now finds himself between two of Montreal's most dangerous forwards. His ability to support Caufield and Slafkovsky could determine whether the top line maintains its offensive rhythm.
Newhook also faces added pressure. Playing between Kreider and Anderson gives him experienced wingers, but Montreal needs that combination to generate consistent scoring opportunities.
On defense, Noah Dobson is paired with Lane Hutson, while Alexandre Carrier skates alongside Kaiden Guhle. Arber Xhekaj and Adam Engstrom complete the projected blue line.
Jacob Fowler and Jakub Dobes are the listed goaltenders as Montreal prepares to begin a four-game road trip in Chicago.
Beck's recall creates another storyline. With Montreal suddenly thin at center, his presence gives St-Louis flexibility if further adjustments become necessary.
The biggest question is whether these combinations can withstand the pressure of playing without Suzuki and Demidov. Friday's matchup will offer the first indication of how Montreal's reshuffled lineup responds.
Can the Montreal Canadiens remain competitive without Nick Suzuki and Ivan Demidov?
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