Playing the last game before a three-day break, the Montreal Canadiens did not ice an optimal lineup.
Carey Price, Jakub Jerabek, and Charles Hudon were left on the sidelines with inferior options taking the ice, meaning the Canadiens’ chances of keeping any momentum going on the road trip were hindered right from the drop of the puck.
Being inserted into the lineup for a first game of the season versus a skilled team on a winning streak would be a tough assignment for any player. Rookie defenceman Brett Lernout was not only thrust into that scenario, but paired with the Habs’ weakest regular defenceman, Joe Morrow, as well.