Hoffman returning to lineup for Canadiens vs. Predators, Allen to start

Montreal Canadiens left wing Mike Hoffman (68) is congratulated by teammates on the bench after his goal against the San Jose Sharks. (Tony Avelar/AP)

Montreal Canadiens head coach Dominique Ducharme confirmed that goaltender Jake Allen will start against the Nashville Predators on Saturday.

Allen, 31, has posted a 5-11-1 record with a 2.96 goals-against average and a .907 save percentage this season.

Ducharme also said Mike Hoffman will return, while Mattias Norlinder will dress for the game.

Hoffman has not played since Nov. 13 after he was placed on injured reserve. He was ruled out for at least one week due to a back injury.

The 32-year-old has four goals and three assists in seven games for the Canadiens this season.

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