Big update on the Jonathan Drouin drama in Montreal.
Martin St. Louis is forced to reverse course.
Martin St. Louis set out to make an example of Montreal Canadiens forward Jonathan Drouin on Friday, announcing that the veteran Habs forward would be forced to sit out of that day's practice as well as Saturday night's game against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
The punishment came as a result of Drouin missing a team meeting, something that the former National Hockey League player in St. Louis simply would not tolerate. Unfortunately for the highly respected head coach of the Canadiens, fate has now seemingly intervened in his plans.
That's because on Saturday morning it was revealed that Drouin would in fact be in the Canadiens lineup tonight against the Lightning despite St. Louis' proclamation earlier in the week. Although the head coach has seemingly changed his mind on the matter, it doesn't sound like he has done so willingly.
When asked if Drouin would play tonight, St. Louis had few words but his answer spoke volumes.
“He’ll be dressed," said St. Louis.
The implication appears to be that Drouin will be on the bench, but that is where he will remain for the duration of the game. When he was asked if Drouin was getting into the game as a result of the lower-body injury to Kaiden Guhle rather than due to the coach's desires, St. Louis all but confirmed that as well.
"Probably," is all St. Louis would say on the matter.