MHN Daily: Injury News, Trade Options, Franchise Records

Montreal Canadiens

The Montreal Canadiens set a franchise record by using five rookie defencemen in their matchup against the Tampa Bay Lightning: Justin Barron, Arber Xhekaj, Johnathan Kovacevic, Jordan Harris and Kaiden Guhle.

Prospect Filip Mesar scored his first goal at the World Junior Championship in Slovakia’s big win over the United States. Lane Hutson finished the game with one assist.

The NHL’s holiday roster freeze has been lifted, allowing the Habs to make some much-needed roster adjustments.

The Canadiens gave a medical update concerning five injured veteran players. It was a mixed bag of news, with some very encouraging developments and a few unfortunate results.

Martin St-Louis was outcoached by a significant margin in Wednesday night’s loss to the Lightning, making a few unforced errors that cost his team a chance to win the game.

National Hockey Now

NYI: The Islanders were forced to recall a handful of prospects, but thankfully they have an advantage over their predecessors.

BOS: The Boston Bruins will play a game without fourth-line player Thomas Nosek for the first time this season.

PGH: The Pittsburgh Penguins continue to struggle this season, blowing a four-goal lead in their 5-4 loss to the Detroit Red Wings.

PHI: Philadelphia Flyers prospect Owen McLaughlin is learning and growing in North Dakota.

WSH: The matchup between the Washington Capitals and New York Rangers led to an interesting Christmas vacation for the Lindgren brothers.

FLA: Given their difficult start to the season, the playoffs start now for Matthew Tkachuk and the Florida Panthers.

DET: The Detroit Red Wings overcame a four-goal deficit to beat the Penguins.

VGK: Take a look at some potential goaltender trade partners for the Vegas Golden Knights.

SJS: Are the Edmonton Oilers interested in a possible trade for Erik Karlsson?

DAL: If the Dallas Stars were not considered contenders at this point, they are now.