The Montreal Canadiens faced a challenging night after their heavy defeat to the Dallas Stars at the Bell Centre. Following the game, Canadiens coach Martin St-Louis scheduled a practice session for 11:30 AM the next day. However, at 10:00 AM, two players had already taken the ice: Brendan Gallagher and Jake Evans.
Gallagher and Evans Work with Adam Nicholas
Both Gallagher and Evans have struggled offensively this season, prompting them to seek extra skills coaching from Adam Nicholas. Together, they practiced various drills aimed at improving their game, focusing on saucer passes and backhand shots. The goal was to replicate in-game scenarios, with pucks positioned to simulate a goaltender’s presence.
Practice Drills
During the sessions, they performed several drills:
- Players took turns delivering passes from behind the net, while Nicholas shot pucks for them to react to.
- One player practiced tipping shots into the net from a distance.
- Each drill lasted approximately ten minutes, emphasizing quick reaction and precise shooting.
This additional work is particularly vital for Gallagher, who is still seeking his first goal of the season. Evans has managed only two goals, with one being an empty-netter. Gallagher, an alternate captain, has an impressive 239 career goals, placing him 15th in Canadiens history.
Contract Notes and Future Prospects
Gallagher is in the second-to-last year of his contract and envisions reaching 1,000 games with the Canadiens by the end of the 2026-27 season, pending good health. In contrast, Evans is in his first year of a new four-year contract, valued at a $2.85 million cap hit.
As the season progresses, questions remain about the perfect lineup for Evans on the fourth line. Currently, he skates alongside Joe Veleno and Josh Anderson, but adjustments may be needed, especially with Alex Newhook’s recent injury.
Optional Skate Attendees
In addition to Gallagher and Evans, several players also participated in the optional skate:
- Lane Hutson
- Ivan Demidov
- Oliver Kapanen
- Zachary Bolduc
Most other team members engaged in off-ice training. As of now, there are no updates on Newhook’s condition or possible call-ups from the Laval Rocket.
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