Sat Jan 31 23:40:00 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Canadiens’ Alexandre Texier Scratched from Game Due to Lower-Body Injury, Olympic Hopes in Question

The Story:
Montreal Canadiens forward Alexandre Texier was a late scratch from Saturday’s game against the Buffalo Sabres due to a lower-body injury. Joe Veleno has been slotted into the lineup to replace him. The announcement came shortly before puck drop, leaving Canadiens fans wondering about the severity of the injury, especially with Texier recently being named to Team France for the upcoming Olympics in Milan.

Key Points:

  • Alexandre Texier was a late scratch due to a lower-body injury on Saturday, January 31, 2026.
  • Joe Veleno replaced Texier in the lineup against the Buffalo Sabres.
  • Texier had been skating on the top line with Cole Caufield and Nick Suzuki during the morning session.
  • Texier was recently named to Team France for the upcoming Olympics.
  • This season, the 26-year-old has 7 goals and 17 points in 30 games for the Canadiens.
  • Texier signed a two-year, $5 million contract extension earlier in January 2026.

Key Takeaways:

  • Texier’s lower-body injury is a setback for the Canadiens, as he was playing on the top line.
  • His participation in the upcoming Olympics with Team France is now uncertain.
  • The timing of the injury is unfortunate, given his recent contract extension and positive performance this season.
  • Joe Veleno has a valuable opportunity to prove himself in Texier’s absence.
  • The Canadiens’ medical staff will be closely monitoring Texier’s condition.

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