
"Well, he is available. I just didn't want to change the lineup... The last few games have been really good. We are just going to keep the lineup the same, and that's all it is. He is an important player - we all like him and want him - but sometimes, these are the decisions a coach has to make. They are not easy for the guys who aren't playing."
"I think they will figure it out and handle whatever the situation is that needs to be handled. At the same time, we got a power play on the one, so you can't react to that. It is important to stay disciplined. All scenarios are different when it comes to this. With our team, I am not too worried about it. I think our team will stand up for each other and get in there."
An available forward sat as a healthy scratch to maintain lineup stability after recent strong performances. The decision prioritized keeping the same lineup rather than making a change. Discipline and situational judgment are emphasized when opponents deliver cheap shots; the team aims to remain composed to avoid retaliation penalties. The team received a power play from such incidents and intends to capitalize by scoring. Confidence exists that teammates will stand up for each other when necessary, drawing on past examples. Morning skate line combinations, defensive pairings, and goaltender starters were listed, with a player undergoing maintenance expected to play.
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