Alexei Emelin did not suit up for Friday night's game in New Jersey.

Emelin did not suit up for Friday night's game in New Jersey.

Analysis:

Montreal head coach Michel Therrien opted for Greg Pateryn on the third pairing instead. Emelin had recently returned from a five-game absence due to a lower-body injury, which may still be bothering the Russian, but Therrien offered no reason for the change.