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It was predictable, but the announcement of Ivan Demidov’s new line with the Montreal Canadiens has sparked many reactions.

Several people are skeptical about the decision to place Demidov alongside Joel Armia and Alex Newhook.

Let’s not forget that this also sends Patrik Laine to the team’s fourth line.. But not so fast!

In a press conference earlier today, Martin St-Louis insisted that, first, there’s no set order to his lines, and second, a change is already ready involving Patrik Laine and Ivan Demidov.

Martin St-Louis already has a second plan in place, one that involves Patrik Laine and Ivan Demidov

This is what he explained to reporters, as reported by Eric Engels:

“St-Louis says it’s possible Demidov will get on the ice with Laine and Newhook.

He’s going to manage things shift to shift based on situations (ozone vs. dzone faceoffs).

It’s unusual and quite rare to see something like this, but it’s as if there are actually four players on Ivan Demidov’s line.

Newhook will always be at center and Demidov will always be on the wing, but the other winger could alternate between Patrik Laine and Joel Armia, depending on the situation and how the game unfolds.

Well then!

By the way, MSL didn’t rule out playing Demidov with Laine during the game, depending on the scenarios and where the faceoffs take place.

He reiterated that he doesn’t see his lines as being numbered.

– Anthony Martineau

This will be one to watch tonight.

That said, according to the “official” version and what was also published by the Montreal Canadiens organization, the lines for tonight’s game will be as follows:

It’s also worth noting that Demidov will see time on the second power play unit.