In a surprising development, forward Samuel Blais will not dress for tonight’s game between the Toronto Maple Leafs and the Montreal Canadiens, according to TVA Sports’ Renaud Lavoie. Blais, who was claimed off waivers by Toronto just days ago after a brief stint with Montreal, took extra time at morning skate—a strong indication he will be scratched.
“Samuel Blais doing some extra this morning and all indications he won’t play tonight,” reported Lavoie.
The decision comes as a shock to many, especially considering the emotional weight of a potential “revenge game” against his former team. Blais, a native of Quebec, had only just shared his first comments in Toronto:
“I would’ve liked things to work out in Montreal — I’m a local guy. But I’m excited to be here. I’m staying in the NHL, and that’s all I wanted.”
Fans and analysts alike are questioning the move. For a player eager to prove himself and facing the very team that let him go, tonight could have been a defining moment. Instead, Blais will watch from the sidelines as the Leafs take on the Habs.
Was this a missed opportunity for Toronto to ignite a spark in their newest acquisition? Or a strategic decision to ease Blais into the lineup?