Just moments before the NHL roster freeze took effect, the Montreal Canadiens completed a trade to acquire Danault.
Since then, he has been around the team but has yet to appear in a game. That changes tonight.
According to reports, Danault will make his Canadiens debut against the Bruins, immediately stepping into a meaningful role. Montreal is not easing him in quietly.
Danault is expected to center Alex Texier and Josh Anderson, a line built for pace, forechecking, and defensive responsibility. For a player known for matchup reliability, the assignment makes sense.
This move also sends a message. Montreal wants Danault involved right away, and there are few environments more demanding than a rivalry game against Boston.
At 32, Danault remains one of the league's more dependable two-way centers. He is not flashy, but his value lies in detail work, faceoffs, defensive reads, and shutting down space through the middle.
For Boston, the challenge will be managing matchups. Danault's line could be deployed against top Bruins forwards, forcing cleaner exits and quicker decisions in transition.
The Bruins know this type of player well. Danault thrives in games where emotion runs high and margins are thin. Rivalry nights suit him.
Whether Danault makes a direct impact on the scoresheet or simply tilts possession, his presence changes the feel of the game. That alone matters.
For Boston, this is another reminder that rivalry games rarely follow scripts. New faces arrive, old problems resurface, and intensity rises fast.
Tonight, Phillip Danault steps back into a familiar spotlight. The Bruins will have to deal with it from the opening faceoff.