The Canadian’s injury list is only growing. This time, it is Alex Newhook who falls in combat for an extended period.
The CH announced on Saturday that its forward will be absent for a period of 10 to 12 weeks due to a sprained ankle suffered during the 5-1 defeat against the Panthers last Thursday. Newhook’s leg got stuck in the net after an attack towards the opponent’s goal. Two of his teammates helped him off the ice.
In 23 games this season, he has seven goals and six assists. Last Thursday, Newhook was part of the first line, with Nick Suzuki and Brendan Gallagher.
“It’s a real shame,” lamented the team captain on Saturday morning. We were hoping for better news. I feel bad for him, because he played really well. It creates a big hole. Other players will have to impose themselves. »
The Canadian will try to fill this “hole” with the promotion of Sean Monahan to the first trio. He will be paired there with none other than Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield.
At a press briefing, a colleague asked him if this time they spent separated from each other on the ice could have been beneficial to them.
“When you give them time away and they come back, it’s like an old couple,” says St-Louis, laughing.
The coach believes that each of them may have acquired new “tools”, skills that they can put into practice together, now.
“Cole played with a left-handed center [Dvorak], while Suzy’s left winger [Newhook] was left-handed. We’ll probably see what happens when they’re back together. Cole was asked to have a more complete game in Suzuki’s absence, and he has thrived in that direction. »
On the other hand, a top line composed of Caufield, Suzuki and Monahan means the lineup will be unbalanced on Saturday night. St-Louis is aware of this.
“Tonight at home, yes, we are going to pump up our first trio. But I have the impression that the rest of our squad [is doing well]. »
The coach repeats in particular that he believes he has found the Josh Anderson of his good days, despite his offensive drought which continues.
He also compliments the “predictability” of the duo of Jake Evans and Tanner Pearson, which explains why young Juraj Slafkovsky will complement them on the third line.
To compensate for the loss of Newhook in the squad, the organization recalled center Mitchell Stephens (3 goals, 9 assists in Laval) from the Rocket on Friday.
His fiancée will be at the Bell Center on Saturday to attend his first NHL game since April 2022, and his first in a Canadian uniform. At the time, he was playing for the Red Wings, his team’s opponent on Saturday. Ironic?
“Absolutely,” he confirms. I want to show the guys in this locker room that I can help. »
“It’s a great opportunity, I can’t wait. Saturday evening, Bell Center, it’s pretty special. »