Sean Farrell has already had the opportunity to play his first game in this league, an already special moment, but Thursday night will be even more special for him.
Because it will be his first game at the Bell Centre, because the family will still be there, and because he has heard all his life, or almost, that there is nothing like playing a hockey game in Montreal.
He is there.
“It’s good to be here and to see all the history of the club that is represented around us in this locker room, explained the young forward Thursday morning at the Bell Center. It was my first time in this locker room, and just to see all the names that are displayed up there… it’s very special. »
What’s also special is that Farrell will start this game against the Florida Panthers on board the club’s second line, along with Jake Evans and Brendan Gallagher.
“I’m very excited, these two guys are very good players,” he added. I’ve had a few appearances with them already in Tuesday night’s game (in Philadelphia)…but obviously that’s a bit of a challenge. I’m learning a lot of things at the same time, and the coaches and the players here are doing everything to try to help me. Martin (St-Louis) told me to have fun and play my way, the rest should be fine.
“It’s all going very fast. I feel like my time in college hockey with Harvard went by really really fast too, and it ended quickly on Friday, with an elimination that surprised us all. So, to find myself here, it’s a bit crazy, but it’s also very pleasant. »
The Canadian also announced Thursday morning that Kirby Dach, injured Monday night in Buffalo, will miss “a minimum” of a week of play. With a season that will end on April 13 for the Montreal club, this bad news suggests that the striker might have played his last game this season.
Defender David Savard did not take part in Thursday’s practice, and he represents a doubtful case for Thursday night’s game at the Bell Centre.
It is Samuel Montembeault who will be in front of the net for the Canadian. This will be the 35th game this season for the Quebec goaltender.
“He showed great progress,” noted coach Martin St-Louis. He has acquired maturity, more consistency. It’s good to see this progress for a goalkeeper. The team is comfortable in front of him. »
