Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
The New Jersey Devils have made lineup changes ahead of tonight’s game vs the Montreal Canadiens.
According to team reporter Amanda Stein, management has made major adjustments to its lineup.
Two key forwards will be left out of the lineup for this game: veteran Evgenii Dadonov and talented Maxim Tsyplakov.
To fill those absences, Brian Halonen and Marc McLaughlin will enter the Devils’ starting lineup at the Prudential Center.
The Devils also made an interesting announcement in goal.
Jake Allen expected to start vs Canadiens as Devils clarify goalie situation at morning skate
A familiar face will try to slow down the Canadiens’ offense tonight, as it has been confirmed that Jake Allen will get the start.
That means Cole Caufield could score his 50th goal of the season against Jake Allen!
The situation also caused some confusion during the Devils’ morning skate.
Jacob Markstrom was in the net typically reserved for the starter, which initially suggested he would face Montreal.
However, the reporter quickly clarified: Jake Allen was the first goaltender to leave the ice, which is always the strongest indicator.
The reporter added that the veteran goalie has a very specific home routine and simply refuses to use the “starter’s net” during practices.
Facing a former teammate always adds a unique layer to an NHL game.
The Canadiens’ forwards, especially Cole Caufield—who is chasing his 50th goal—know Allen’s tendencies very well, but the reverse is equally true.
Evgenii Dadonov will therefore not face his former teammates, unlike Jake Allen.
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics
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Jake Allen to start vs Canadiens as Devils shake up lineup with surprise scratches
Do you think Cole Caufield will score his 50th goal against Jake Allen tonight?