Nathan Beaulieu is back in the bigs, as the Habs’ young defenceman has been called back up from Hamilton following the announcement that Douglas Murray would be suspended for three games for an elbow he laid out in Tampa.
There’s no word yet, however, whether Beaulieu - the 17th overall selection in the 2011 NHL entry draft - will suit up for Friday night’s tilt in Ottawa against the Senators.
Beaulieu appeared to have earned a regular job with the big club prior to the Olympic break, notching two assists and earning a plus five rating in 16 games for the Habs.
Beaulieu, a former star with the QMJHL's St. John Sea Dogs, however, was not recalled from the club after being returned to the AHL for the Sochi break.
Beaulieu – judging by his statistics – did not shine in Steeltown, as he scored six goals and 19 assists in 54 games, while earning a minus 17 on the plus-minus chart.
Instead, the Canadiens recalled Jarred Tinordi, who has played sporadically with the big club since.
Coach Michel Therrien has already confirmed that the 6'6" Tinordi, who has no points in 19 games this season, will play against the Senators.
The Canadiens stayed on in Tampa Bay Thursday to practice in preparation for their game in Ottawa.
Injured Habs’ defenceman Josh Gorges took part in the session, showing that his recovery from a broken hand is progressing apace, as he was seen taking shots on Carey Price and Peter Budaj, who will start the game against the Senators.
Late Wednesday the Canadiens announced that forward David Desharnais would the team's nominee for the Masterton Trophy as the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to hockey.
