The Montreal Canadiens will be without a key player for an undetermined amount of time.
Following Sunday's practice, the Habs announced that Brendan Gallagher is out with a concussion. The 5'8 rookie forward has been a boost of energy the Canadiens have needed this season. He has been able to produce five goals and three assists in his first thirteen games, which included a goal Saturday night. Coach Michel Therrien said that Gallagher is feeling better Sunday morning but stressed that the 20-year-old Edmonton native will not return to the ice until he is 100 per cent healthy.
This is the second concussion for Gallagher, who suffered one while playing for the Vancouver Giants in the WHL. With Gallagher out, this leaves room for Ryan White to draw back into the lineup. White has been in coach Therrien's dog house for the past four games for undisciplined play against the Buffalo Sabres.
Max Pacioretty, who has been nicknamed the Wolverine because of his superhero like ability to come back from injury at a rapid pace, was practicing after cutting his rib on the skate of Flyers defenceman Kimmo Timonen Saturday night. Pacioretty required a few stitches and a trip to Montreal General for a C.T. scan but should play Monday.
Carey Price was still home sick with the stomach flu but is feeling much better. He will backup Peter Budaj in goal Monday night against the Carolina Hurricanes. Therrien feels it would not be smart to make Price the starter since he has not practiced with the team since they were in Florida.
P.K. Subban was feeling under the weather as well. He was sent home from practice with a sore throat and will be re-evaluated Monday.
