The Montreal Canadiens will get a big boost to their lineup for Game 7.
Noah Dobson will make his post-season debut against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Sunday night. He was originally deemed to be a game-time decision.
Head coach Martin St. Louis said after morning skate that the team was going to determine his status after he participates in warm-ups.
Dobson hasn’t played since his left hand took the brunt of a slap shot against the Columbus Blue Jackets on April 11. The team announced the following day he would be re-evaluated in two weeks.
The 26-year-old from Summerside, P.E.I., has participated in Montreal’s practices in the past week, appearing to handle the puck and shoot with comfort.
His return provides a significant boost for the Canadiens. He averaged the third-highest ice time (22:29) on the team this season, regularly handling top assignments on Montreal’s top pair with Mike Matheson.
Dobson also had 12 goals and 47 points in 80 games, with all but eight points coming at even strength.
Arber Xhekaj will come out of the lineup for Dobson.
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