On this final night of hockey before the NHL trade deadline, we were closely monitoring the lineups of various teams.

Which players would be removed from the lineup to avoid injuries?

Which players would be removed from the lineup due to an upcoming trade?

For now, we have our first case from San Jose!

Luke Kunin removed from the Sharks’ lineup due to an upcoming trade

See the confirmation from Chris Johnston.

“The San Jose Sharks are holding Luke Kunin out of tonight’s game in Denver for roster management reasons.”

– Chris Johnston, TSN

He will therefore likely be traded by tomorrow at 3:00 PM.

But the next question is..

What about the Montreal Canadiens players?

Jeremy Filosa reports that no Canadiens player will be removed from tonight’s lineup due to a trade

That is the decision that has been made, and it says a lot about what awaits the Montreal Canadiens tomorrow.

“From what we understand, four hours before the game between the Oilers and the Canadiens, no Canadiens player is expected to be removed from the lineup for potential trade reasons.”

– Jeremy Filosa

Of course, things can change very quickly, but this speaks volumes.

Do not expect to see David Savard, Joel Armia, and company traded before tomorrow at 3:00 PM, unless an irresistible last-minute offer comes in for Kent Hughes and Jeff Gorton.

It is worth noting that the Canadiens are playing against the Oilers tonight, live from Edmonton.