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.

EDGE Analysis

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.