The Montreal Canadiens have never been strangers to headline-grabbing drama, but their latest lineup decision ahead of the highly anticipated preseason clash with the Ottawa Senators has left fans and analysts alike searching for answers. In a rare move, the team itself broke tradition by announcing tonight’s lines and pairings, setting the stage for a whirlwind of speculation and debate throughout the hockey world.

While injuries and last-minute changes are routine during the preseason, this particular announcement comes shrouded in mystery—and not just because of who is missing from the lineup. Instead, it’s the fate of one star forward that has tongues wagging and social media buzzing. Despite a notable absence that would seem to open up a golden opportunity, the Canadiens have made a surprising choice that defies expectations and raises more questions than answers.

Is this a calculated message from the coaching staff, a strategic gamble, or something far more personal? With whispers of punishment and consequences swirling behind closed doors, the atmosphere at Bell Centre is thick with tension and intrigue. What’s really going on with the team’s most talked-about player—and what could this mean for the start of the regular season? Read on to uncover the full story.

Sep 25, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens right wing Patrik Laine (92) celebrates his goal against the Toronto Maple Leafs with his teammates during the second period at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

The Montreal Canadiens made a last-minute announcement ahead of the game against the Ottawa Senators.

For a rare occasion, it was the Canadiens themselves who revealed the lines and pairings for tonight’s game, and once again, one forward received some very bad news.

Demotion for Patrik Laine despite Zachary Bolduc’s injury, Canadiens announce their lineup

Even though Zachary Bolduc (injured) will not be available for the game against the Senators, it won’t be Patrik Laine joining Kirby Dach on the second line.

“The training session is underway at the Bell Centre, in preparation for the final preseason game against the Senators.

Zachary Bolduc still absent (lower body)

– Patrick Friolet

Joe Veleno gets a nice promotion, while Patrik Laine remains “stuck” on the team’s fourth line.

“Here’s what the Canadiens’ forward lines and defence pairings are expected to look like for tonight’s final pre-season game against the Ottawa Senators at the Bell”

– Stu Cowan

Clear punishment for Patrik Laine, according to Martin Lemay

Laine has now been on the Canadiens’ fourth, or even fifth, line for over a week.

As Martin Lemay points out, this is clearly a punishment and/or a message for Laine.

According to Lemay, there’s no testing involved here-it’s outright a punishment.

“I’m trying to understand.

What do they want to test by putting Laine with Beck and Veleno?

It’s not a test, it’s a punishment, it’s a consequence.

Seriously, there’s something to it.”

– Martin Lemay

Do you think Patrik Laine will start the season on the Canadiens’ top three lines?