Martin St-Louis hints at Canadiens forward scratch before Game 7 in Buffalo

A Canadiens forward may have just been removed from the lineup ahead of Game 7 against the Buffalo Sabres at KeyBank Center.

Martin St-Louis delivered a statement during his press conference that says a lot about his intentions.

Eric Engels of Sportsnet shared the information on social media:

Anthony Martineau of TVA Sports also noted the Canadiens head coach’s comments on the matter:

Martin St-Louis’ comments strongly suggest Joe Veleno could be the odd man out for Game 7

The Quebec-born head coach mentioned that Veleno is “available” to play tonight. But he never actually said that the forward would indeed be in the lineup.

That is an extremely important nuance in coaches’ language, especially on the day of a major playoff game.

When a coach uses the word “available” without confirming that a player will play, it is generally a signal that a lineup scratch is likely.

And the context reinforces that interpretation.

The 33-year-old veteran has not played since the first round against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Gallagher being inserted into the lineup would automatically mean another forward has to come out. And all signs are now pointing toward Veleno.

The context surrounding Veleno’s injury is also playing a major role in the potential decision.

If Veleno is not physically at 100%, this is exactly the type of situation that can push a head coach to remove him from the lineup for a crucial game.

There is no reason to take risks with a player who could be limited, especially when you have a hungry Brendan Gallagher ready to step in.

For Martin St-Louis, it is also a difficult decision to make. Veleno has delivered solid performances since the start of the playoffs. He even received the player-of-the-game wolf head after the Canadiens’ 6-2 win over the Sabres in Game 3.

Now it remains to be seen whether the official lineup will indeed confirm Veleno’s removal in favor of Gallagher in the hours leading up to puck drop.

Or if Martin St-Louis will ultimately go with another combination.

The warmup session at KeyBank Center will provide the first official indications.

Game 7 begins at 7:30 p.m. tonight.