Here’s just how much Brendan Gallagher is loved in the locker room

Charles-Alexis Brisebois
Here’s just how much Brendan Gallagher is loved in the locker room
Credit: X

A few weeks ago, Brendan Gallagher was left out of the lineup by Martin St-Louis for a back-to-back game. It caused quite a stir, and he was quickly back in the lineup.

It was the first time since 2013 that he had been left out while healthy and eligible to play. But it had been clear: it was only for one game.

By the end of the season, the situation had changed: he was clearly surplus to requirements. Gally missed four of the last five regular-season games (he played just one to give other veterans a rest) and was benched for the first four playoff games.

But yesterday, he got his chance. And he didn't want to miss it.

As soon as he stepped onto the ice, he made his presence felt by scoring. He had also scored in his last regular-season game, after sitting out four games.

The break clearly did him good.

We can all agree that Gally didn't have the biggest role last night. He played for 6:48, but he made sure to make the most of those minutes on the ice.

The veteran brought a different energy to the team. He was surely overcome with emotion at finally returning to the game, scoring in the playoffs for the first time since 2021… but also at being able to honor his mother.

It's his most important goal since his mother's passing, after all.

After the game, we also saw proof of his importance in the locker room. He was the one who got the victory haircut, but above all, he received an outpouring of love from his teammates.

Immediately following an interview on Sportsnet, #11 was greeted by the reserves and some active players. Everyone looked genuinely happy for him, given the circumstances. #AndRightlySo

Look at the guys in the picture. These aren't guys who played with him in his prime.

This group is tight-knit. Even the players who know their time in Montreal is running out are putting their egos aside to celebrate the fact that the Canadiens are one game away from the second round, but also to celebrate stories of overcoming adversity.


overtime

The Canadiens spent the night in Tampa Bay following Game 5. The team will leave Florida at 10 a.m. this morning. And around 9 a.m., there will be virtual media availability.

So there is no practice on the schedule today.

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