Canadiens Center Situation Worsens Following Dach Injury Update
Montreal Canadiens fans have received another blow as the team announced that forward Kirby Dach will be sidelined for 4-6 weeks with a fractured foot. The injury, confirmed on Sunday, further depletes the Canadiens' center depth, already strained by other significant injuries.
Dach, 24, sustained the injury during Saturday's game against the Boston Bruins. While he finished the game, it was apparent he was experiencing discomfort. This setback interrupts what was shaping up to be a productive season for Dach, who has recorded five goals and two assists in 15 games.
This injury is particularly frustrating for Dach, who has struggled with injuries in recent seasons. The former third-overall pick in the 2019 NHL Draft has only played 132 games since the start of the 2022-23 season due to a pair of knee injuries. He missed almost all of the 2023-24 season after tearing his ACL and MCL and also missed a significant portion of the 2024-25 season.
The Canadiens' center position has been hit hard by injuries this season. Alex Newhook is already out for four months with a fractured ankle. With both Dach and Newhook unavailable, the Canadiens are forced to rely on other options to fill the void. Nick Suzuki remains the team's top center. Jake Evans and perhaps Oliver Kapanen are other options for the team.
In response to Dach's injury, the Canadiens have recalled forward Joshua Roy from the Laval Rocket, their AHL affiliate. Roy, has four goals and three assists in 10 AHL games this season. This call-up presents a significant opportunity for Roy to showcase his abilities at the NHL level.
The Canadiens are already dealing with a number of other injuries. Kaiden Guhle is out for 8-10 weeks following adductor muscle surgery, and Patrik Laine is expected to miss 3-4 months after undergoing core muscle surgery.
The Canadiens face the Columbus Blue Jackets on Monday. The team will need to find a way to generate offense and maintain defensive stability despite the absence of key players.
