Patrik Laine has been ruled out of Game 3 of the first-round playoff series against Washington due to an upper-body injury, following a disappointing performance in Game 2. The Canadiens, who are trailing 2-0 in the series, are making adjustments to their lineup, inserting Arber Xhekaj in place of injured players. Laine's recent struggles include a seven-game goalless streak, raising concerns about his contribution in crucial playoff moments.

Montreal's head coach, Martin St. Louis, indicated that evaluations of injured players will be ongoing. Fans are eager to see how the lineup adapts in front of a sold-out Bell Centre crowd, marking the Canadiens' first playoff game at home since 2017. This matchup is pivotal for Montreal as they seek to keep their playoff hopes alive.