We have very good news this morning regarding forward Rafaël Harvey-Pinard.
He's back to full health! Just moments ago, live from the Montreal Canadiens' practice, Harvey-Pinard took to the ice (for the very first time) in a regular jersey.
This means he can take contact, marking the very last step in his process of returning to play.
I wouldn't have thought I'd say this a few weeks ago, but I truly believe RHP's return could bring a spark to Martin St-Louis' lineup.
Here's a player with grit, character, and someone who will bring energy to every game.
Rafaël Harvey-Pinard's Upcoming Return: Changes Coming to Martin St-Louis' Lineup
Knowing this, we're very eager to see who will be affected.
Clearly, decisions will need to be made by Canadiens' management.
Will Lucas Condotta simply be sent back to the Laval Rocket, and will it be him who's taken out of the lineup?
Or will Martin St-Louis use this opportunity to send a clear message to a veteran who may not be working as hard as RHP?
We'll have answers very soon.
Twenty-five-year-old Rafaël Harvey-Pinard is a hard-working forward standing 5'9' and weighing 181 pounds.
The Canadiens' seventh-round pick in 2019 has accumulated 31 points in 83 career NHL games, including 17 goals, and notably recorded 20 points in 34 games (14 goals) during the 2022-2023 season.
We're really looking forward to seeing him back in the lineup.
A line with RHP, Jake Evans, and Brendan Gallagher could truly be an energetic and character-filled trio, but, of course, the decision is up to Martin St-Louis.
One thing's for sure: Harvey-Pinard will have to get to work quickly, as the imminent return of Patrik Laine will require other big decisions to be made.
