Canadiens’ Spacek Probable, Gill Hopeful, Markov & Mara Out In Game 6

The number of question marks on the Montreal Canadiens blue line heading into Game 6 against the Pittsburgh Penguins is staggering.

Jaroslav Spacek will likely return for his first match since Game 4 in the first round, as he's been slowed down by a virus. Hal Gill is doubtful after suffering a cut to the back of his leg on Saturday from Chris Kunitz's skate, but, in his own words, remains hopeful to dress.

Then there's Andrei Markov and Paul Mara - both expected to miss the remainder of the postseason - who participated in a light skate alongside a trainer on Sunday. Head coach Jacques Martin hasn't confirmed anything, but the most likely scenario would be Spacek playing and Gil sitting, while Markov and Mara cannot be close to 100 per cent. Markov is the team's best overall rearguard and the absence of Gil, their best shutdown force, would almost cripple the defensive corps.

If Spacek plays, he'll likely pair up with Roman Hamrlik, as the two were a shutdown combination during the regular season. P.K. Subban is expected to team up with Josh Gorges if Gil cannot compete. Under these circumstances, most clubs would panic, but the Canadiens have been dealing with injuries since the first game of the regular season - literally.