A last game in the NHL for Mathieu Perreault tonight?

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Jeff Drouin
April 19, 2022 (5:33 PM)

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With Jake Evans (virus), Joel Armia (in Finland for family reasons) and Michael Pezzetta (suspension) out of the lineup, Mathieu Perreault will be in the lineup for the first time since March 29. Limited to 20 games this season, the veteran knows he doesn't have much time left in the big league.

I want to enjoy every moment. I don't know when I'll get another opportunity to play in the NHL," Perreault said after the Canadiens' morning practice. I love playing hockey. It's what I want to do. I'm happy to have an opportunity at the Bell Centre." - Mathieu Perreault

It's going to be a tough summer for Perreault, who will have to make some tough decisions. He will be looking at his options, even playing in Europe, this summer with his family. With his children in school, it would be surprising if the old continent was an option.

It will be interesting to see how many games the 34-year-old veteran can play between now and the end of the season. It will be up to Martin St-Louis, who is one of his biggest supporters.

I've always been a big fan of his style. His personality makes me love him even more as a player. I'm glad I had the chance to be around him. I would have loved that to have him when I was 25-26."

"It's never easy to live this experience. When Mathieu arrived, there were veterans who were going through this situation. It's the wheel that turns. One day, it's your turn to see that guys are pushing to get into the NHL. - Martin St-Louis

To date, Perreault has played 703 NHL games and has 142 goals and 208 assists for 350 points. Not bad for a sixth round pick (177th overall in 2006)!