When will Koivu be back?

The Montreal Canadiens' depth will be tested with their sudden rash of injuries.

Well, it's something I've been talking about all season. Yes, the Canadiens have a great record and have had a fantastic season. But, has it all been for naught? Is the season about to go down the tube because of injuries? Time and time again, we talked on Game Points about the 'what ifs,' about how Montreal would fare if they had just a couple of injuries. After all, prior to the Komisarek injury, the Canadiens' worst enemy all season was a couple of bouts with the flu.

So here we go. No Koivu. No Bouillon. No Komisarek.

Three character guys with several years of leadership and tenure with the team, all out. Starting with tonight's game in Ottawa, Montreal has a chance to show their so-called great depth. But, can players like Begin, Dandenault, Smolinski and Latendresse all step up? More importantly, is Sergei Kostitsyn ready to take over for Koivu at centre? And can Mikhail Grabovski, can he stay on his feet in the corners long enough to forecheck and outwork his opponents? These three games will tell.

They say experience is the best way to get better. Baptism by fire is not the preferred way for youngsters to get seasoned. But, it'll have to do. With Captain K out, we'll find out what Alex Kovalev is made of as a leader. We'll find out if Christopher Higgins is ready to be a leader. Can Michael Ryder step up offensively? Will Maxime Lapierre be effective on the PK and as a checker? Can Ryan O'Byrne figure out the fine balance between playing physical and not getting penalized?

So many questions and so many answers on the way shortly. Three games until the playoffs and it all begins tonight.