In his post-practice press conference, head coach Michel Therrien confirmed that Price wouldn't be available for Tuesday night's game against the Pittsburgh Penguins as he continues his recovery. In his absence, Al Montoya will make his third consecutive start between the pipes, while Charlie Lindgren will serve as his backup.
"It's only the first step [with Carey skating with Stephane Waite]. Yesterday [Sunday], he started to feel a little bit better. He came in and did a little workout in the gym. Today were his first steps on the ice. For sure, he's not 100 percent," said Therrien, on the subject of Price's health status. "With that kind of virus, it's not only 24 hours and then you feel great. It takes time. We'll see tomorrow. He's day-to-day."
The Canadiens' bench boss indicated that the team isn't rushing Price back until he is fully healthy, noting that the veteran netminder has lost some weight as a result of the virus. He indicated that Price's recovery is progressing, though, and he's taking the necessary steps to get back to work soon.
"He's going to play when he's going to be 100 percent - his energy level, his weight, everything. You're playing in the NHL, you're facing great hockey players and you need to be on top of your game, otherwise you can't play," explained Therrien. "We hope that he's going to get better every day and we'll go from there."
Other news and notes from practice:
- Defenseman Mikhail Sergachev draws back into the lineup on Tuesday night, while Greg Pateryn will be a healthy scratch. Sergachev, who was paired with Alexei Emelin at practice, will be playing in front of his parents and sister at the Bell Centre. They are making the trip from Russia and will arrive in Montreal on Monday afternoon.
