Good news for the 
Canadiens and for poolers waiting on Mike Matheson. The defenceman took another step Wednesday morning in Brossard and he will travel to Boston with his teammates for Thursday night's game against the 
Bruins. He could even be back in the lineup as soon as Thursday.
Matheson out since late October
Matheson, 32, has not played since late October because of a lower-body injury. He skated with a small group early in the week before joining his teammates for full practices on Tuesday and Wednesday.
Suzuki and Evans get therapy days
Captain Nick Suzuki and Jake Evans both had therapy days Wednesday and missed practice. Suzuki left Tuesday night's game late in the third period after contact with Ryan Hartman, but he came back to score the tying goal. Evans got hurt in Monday's practice but played Tuesday night. Both forwards will travel to Boston, and all signs point to them suiting up Thursday.
Montembeault stays in Montreal
Samuel Montembeault also took part in Wednesday's full practice, but he will not travel with the team to Boston. The goalie from Becancour has still not seen action in 2026-27 after getting hurt in practice. His return is getting closer, but poolers will have to wait a little longer.
Fowler confirmed for Thursday night
In net, Martin St-Louis confirmed Jacob Fowler in goal for Thursday night at TD Garden. The young goalie has held the net in Montembeault's absence and he gets another great chance to shine against the Bruins.
What it means for your pool
If you have Matheson, check the pre-game news Thursday before putting him back in your lineup, he is very close to a return. If you have Suzuki or Evans, do not worry, both are travelling with the team and should play. If you have Fowler, he is confirmed in goal Thursday night in Boston, so lock him in. For Montembeault, hold him a little longer, his return is coming but he will not play Thursday.
Sources
The facts in this article come from NHL.com, TVA Sports and RDS.
