The Montreal Canadiens young centre, Kirby Dach, has left tonight’s game against the Chicago Blackhawks with what appears to be an injured left leg. It is possibly a knee injury. This could be a big blow to Canadiens lineup, losing a big presence down the middle of the ice. The extent is not known at this time, just that he won’t return to tonight’s action.
Dach off to the locker room after the hit. Limping on his right side. pic.twitter.com/85YFfLsflk
— Marc Dumont (@MarcPDumont) October 14, 2023
Montreal Canadiens Centre Kirby Dach Has Injured Leg
The second-line centre for the Canadiens is hoping for a productive 2023-24 season. This potential injury could have that in jeopardy. Dach was acquired from the Blackhawks in the summer of 2022 for a couple of draft picks. Moreover, he is looking to build off a career season with the Canadiens last year. The 23-year-old had 38 points in 58 games last year. It saw him record career highs in categories such as goals (14), assists (24), points, hits (53), PPG (0.66), so pretty decent. Along with many of his Canadien teammates, in particular the young forward group, they’re all looking forward to the upcoming season.
What This Means for the Canadiens
For the Canadiens, they need this to be something minor. If it is a long-term injury, it will have a trickle-down effect, and it will hurt the roster. Therefore, the forward group would struggle. If they are missing their second-line centre, a big talented one, it is a big void to fill. Aside from their top line, this would have an impact on their secondary scoring. Young wingers like Juraj Slafkovsky or Rafael Harvey-Pinard would benefit from all the help offensively they can get. Sean Monahan is another who might feel the pinch. On the other hand, a fellow centre like Alex Newhook, will get an added opportunity. This would be his time to learn from the experience and build on the opportunity.
Main photo: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
