Updates from optional morning skate – Jan. 23

MONTREAL – Sixteen players hit the ice for an optional morning skate at the Bell Centre ahead of Tuesday’s matchup against the Ottawa Senators. 

Arber Xhekaj was part of the group that laced their skates. The 22-year-old defenseman was recalled from the Laval Rocket on Monday after a 17-game stint in the AHL.

Prior to the on-ice workout, Samuel Montembeault worked through some exercises with goalie coach Eric Raymond. 

Here’s who opted to skate:

During his pregame press conference, head coach Martin St-Louis confirmed that Xhekaj and Johnathan Kovacevic will return to the lineup against the Sens, while Jordan Harris will skip his turn.  

Tanner Pearson will also play for the first time since Dec. 9. He was sidelined with an upper-body injury and has been practicing with his teammates for the past while. Jake Allen will get the start. 

Josh Anderson is expected to reach the 500-game milestone in the NHL when the puck drops against the Senators. For tickets, click here.