By CoachK, AllHabs.Net
SAINT-LAZARE, QC — With the mounting man games lost to injury this season, the Canadiens’ medical staff continues to have their hands, and beds, full. With Andrei Markov and Josh Gorges lost to knee injuries early in the season, the revolving door the the Habs’ dressing room continues to spin.
Along with the injuries mentioned above, Jaroslav Spacek was expected out at least six weeks after arthroscopic surgery on his right knee. That has now been extended to the remainder of the season. As well, Mathieu Darche is battling a groin injury and Brent Sopel is out day-to-day with a suspected broken left hand. Add Max Pacioretty’s injuries suffered during the vicious check to the head by Boston’s Zdeno Chara, and it’s a wonder the Canadiens have sixth place in the Eastern Conference firmly in their grasps.
To add insult to the already long list of injuries, add the names of forwards Jeff Halpern and Tomas Plekanec to the mix. Both players left Tuesday night’s game versus the Washington Capitals with “lower body injuries.”
Now, more than ever, the Canadiens are in dire need of contributions from their more skilled players. Scott Gomez has been a no-show for most of this season, primarily because he has continued issues adapting to new linemates and Coach Martin’s coaching strategies. Michael Cammalleri, who himself is currently fighting the flu, seems unable to engage the opposition along the half-wall. One could assume that this is due to his recent return from a shoulder separation.
And what can be said about poor Captain Brian Gionta. It seems that, other than a brief stint playing along side Tomas Plekanec, his efforts have not been reciprocated by his linemates. He is always digging for the puck, and getting himself dirty in front of the opposing net. At 5′ 7″, which is generous if you meet him in person, his nights often end bruised and battered.
In recent weeks, forwards Lars Eller and Andrei Kostitsyn have been the catalysts of the Canadiens’ offence. Often finding their way into the coach’s doghouse, they have found moderate success playing together on the third line, which has allowed for the Canadiens to win five out their last six games. Even Travis Moen, often referred to as “Stone Hands” has potted goals in the last two games.
So, going into the playoffs, what can the Canadiens do going forward?
They do have a couple of options with the Hamilton Bulldogs. Acquired at the trade deadline, forward Nigel Dawes, who does have some limited NHL experience, could be called up. Dawes was out of the Bulldogs lineup on Sunday with the flu. Another option is Aaron Palushaj, who was acquired from the St. Louis Blues for Matt D’Agostini. Although Palushaj’s foot speed has always been questioned, his hockey sense can make up for that deficiency. And while Dawes needs continued work on his conditioning, he has certainly made an impact with the Bulldogs since his arrival in Hamilton.
With the trade deadline long gone, there’s not much the Canadiens can do but hope that the injuries to Halpern and Plekanec are not very serious. If they are, the Habs will be forced to hold on for dear life to remain in the playoff picture, let alone in sixth position.