Canadiens' Sami Niku: Clears COVID-19 protocols

Niku (not injury related) was removed from the NHL's COVID-19 protocols Monday but isn't expected to play before Saturday's clash with the Bruins, Arpon Basu of The Athletic reports.

Even once Niku is available to play, he is far from a lock for the lineup, especially once Chris Wideman (personal) rejoins the team. The 25-year-old Niku has played in just nine contests for the Habs this year in which he registered three assists, five hits and eight shots.