Canadiens Preview: Gallagher Expected To Return To Lineup

TL;DR

The Montreal Canadiens will play the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 5, with the series tied at 2-2. Brendan Gallagher is expected to return to the lineup, which could boost the Canadiens' performance at even strength.

Key points

Montreal Canadiens face Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 5
Series tied at 2-2
Brendan Gallagher expected to return
Puck drop scheduled for 7 pm ET
Canadiens need to improve 5v5 scoring

Montreal CanadiensTampa Bay Lightning

David Kirouac-USA TODAY Sports

The Montreal Canadiens (2-2) will face the Tampa Bay Lightning (2-2) in Game 5 on Wednesday, with the puck drop scheduled for 7 pm ET.

With the series tied at two games a piece, this will be a crucial match up for both teams, as the winner will have a significant advantage going forward.

If the Canadiens are to return to Montreal with a series lead, they’ll need to count on their first line to start producing at 5v5. Juraj Slafkovsky, Cole Caufield, and Nick Suzuki have done fairly well when the Canadiens have a man advantage, but they’re yet to register their names on the scoresheet at 5v5, a considerable drag on the team’s offensive potential.

More often than not, Suzuki and Company have to face Brandon Hagel, a situation that has essentially neutered the first line’s offensive capabilities.

As for any lineup changes, the only decision that’s worth monitoring is Brendan Gallagher’s return to the ice. Gallagher, 33, has been used sparingly by the Canadiens in recent weeks, with his last game taking place on April 14, versus the Philadelphia Flyers.

Seeing as Oliver Kapanen took part in the optional skate this morning, all signs point to the 22-year-old Finn being the player who will make his way to the press box to allow for Gallagher’s return to the lineup.