Lines and defense pairings at practice – Oct. 5

BROSSARD – Kaiden Guhle was in a standard practice jersey at the CN Sports Complex on Monday, suggesting the defenseman is cleared for contact in his recovery from a lower-body injury.

The 24-year-old has been sidelined since the beginning of training camp following a minor surgery to his adductor muscle this summer.

There were a few changes to the lines at practice, most notably Florian Xhekaj joining Jake Evans and Josh Anderson.

With Ivan Demidov absent for a therapy day, Kirby Dach slotted in alongside Alex Newhook and Juraj Slafkovsky, while Zachary Bolduc skated with Phillip Danault and Alexandre Texier.

The Canadiens host their home opener against the defending Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes at the Bell Centre on Tuesday. For tickets, click here.