Expect to see Canadiens goaltender Jaroslav Halak make his fifth straight start Monday vs. the Senators and he will also likely be named the NHL’s first star of the week.
Halak has faced 186 shots in his last four games, while allowing only six goals and earning four wins in a row. “He’s definitely in a zone right now,” said Habs C Scott Gomez. “But we don’t want to be doing that every night. It’s just too many shots. He’s played wonderful for us, but we have to switch things around. We’re winning, that’s the most important thing,” said Gomez.
This and that: Ottawa W Nick Foligno skated for the first time since having knee surgery a 10 days ago. He is expected to return to the lineup New Year’s Eve vs. the Islanders at home if all goes well ... LW Jarkko Ruutu left early in practice. Coach Cory Clouston said he has minor bumps and bruises, but is expected to play.
Injuries: Canadiens — RW Brian Gionta (foot) possible; D Roman Hamrlik (knee) possible; Senators — RW Daniel Alfredsson (shoulder) out; W Nick Foligno (knee) out; C Jason Spezza (knee) out.
