If Matt Duchene is being held out of the lineup Thursday, it's news to him.
The Ottawa Senators forward told reporters after Wednesday's practice that he hasn't been informed about sitting out versus the New Jersey Devils, according to TSN 1200.
"I'm preparing like I'm playing," Duchene told the assembled media, including TSN's Brent Wallace.
Duchene on possibility of being a healthy scratch Thursday: "It would be hard...if it happens. There would be good merit and reason for it, but I would like to be with the guys to the end....regardless of my decision."
— Ken Warren (@Citizenkwarren) February 20, 2019
Senators head coach Guy Boucher also said he's received no word on whether Duchene will be in or out of the lineup, according to NHL.com's Mike Morreale. Boucher added that he plans on playing Duchene until he's told otherwise.
TSN's Darren Dreger reported Tuesday night that the star center is not expected to be in Thursday's lineup as the Senators look to avoid risking an injury ahead of the Feb. 25 trade deadline.
Dreger also reported Sunday that Ottawa plans to trade Duchene, who's set to hit unrestricted free agency in the offseason.
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