Carey Price Close To Return?

The Montreal Canadiens got a boost today when all world goaltender Carey Price returned to practice for the first time since being sidelined due to a ‘lower body injury’ in late October. The reigning Vezina and Hart Trophy winner worked with the Habs’ other goalies Dustin Tokarski and Mike Condon for around 90 minutes. Adding to the good news–he wasn’t limited in any way during the practice session.

One thing remains unknown–when Price will return to game action. That’s obviously something that no one wants to rush but his Canadiens teammates were enthused just to have him back at practice according to forward Dale Weise: “He’s such a big part of our team, when he’s out there the guys get a boost. He’s probably our biggest leader in this locker room; everyone just gets excited when you see him out there.”

Head coach Michel Therrien said that there’s no timetable for Price to return to the lineup: “As I said when he was first injured, when he feels ready, not only physically but in terms of being able to perform, he’ll let us know. Right now it’s a bit too early to say.”

One of the reasons the Canadiens have the luxury of taking their time with Price’s injury has been the inspired play of backup Mike Condon. The 24 year old rookie has gone 5-1-2 during Price’s absence to improve his season record to 7-1-2 with 2.14 goals against average and a 0.918 save percentage. Price paid respect to his teammate’s effort in comments to the media: “[Condon] really allowed me to take my time and get well. He played very valiantly over the last two weeks. He played very well, and that was a very good sign. I’ve been saying it all along, this team isn’t just about me.”

Coach Therrien has named Condon the starter for Thursday’s game against the Arizona Coyotes but beyond that nothing has been announced regarding Price’s availability as a backup or starter. Of course with the way that Condon has been playing there’s no reason to rush Price back early and have him risk re-injuring himself.