According to John Lu of TSN, Carey Price has returned to the Montreal Canadiens and the veteran goaltender was examined by trainers at the practice facility yesterday. It is expected that he will have his first interaction with teammates on Tuesday and a return to play could come shortly thereafter.
Related: Carey Price Close to Returning for the Montreal Canadiens
While there is no set timeline for Price getting back into the Canadiens’ net and the organization hasn’t provided any details on their plans in that regard, the Canadiens are stuck at the bottom of the Atlantic Division, winning just two of their first ten games. Price’s return will be great news for the organization, even though they won’t rush him back into action.
Price entered the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program and was out a minimum of 30 days as a result. Head coach Dominique Ducharme told reporters last week, including Eric Engels of Sportsnet that the team expected their star goaltender back soon. With both Jake Allen and Sam Montembeault struggling during Price’s absence, the Habs could use the boost.
Defenseman Jeff Petry said the team will help support him as he returns but also said Price is a calming influence and that his return will be a real boost for the team and a support system for a group that is struggling. Brendan Gallagher said the team will do whatever they can to help him. He figures Price will be excited to get back and do what he’s always done. Gallagher doesn’t believe Price was needed for the team get extra motivation, but he’ll certainly be an added bonus when he’s back with the team.
Will Price Make a Difference for the Canadiens?
The way the Canadiens have been playing, it’s difficult to know if Carey Price is in the net or around the team will make a huge difference but if there’s one player who could potentially spark a team to playing up to their ability, it might be Price.
Price has been one of the best goaltenders in the NHL over the last decade and if he’s playing at a level many know he can, the Canadiens have the ability to string a number of wins together.
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