Canadiens Practice Notes: Familiar Faces Return To Practice

The Montreal Canadiens got some good news on Monday morning, as three veterans returned to practice in non-contact jerseys.

Kirby Dach, Brendan Gallagher and Jake Evans, all of whom have been out of the lineup for over a month now, returned to the Canadiens’ practice today after rehabbing lower-body injuries.

All three were on the ice with the Canadiens in non-contact jerseys and partaking in practice as regular players; getting a feel for their feet and getting back into game shape with their teammates.

The Montreal Canadiens haven’t given a timetable for their return, but seeing on the ice with 12 games left on the season gives hope that they’ll see some action before April 13.

Kirby Dach, Brendan Gallagher and Jake Evans on the ice in non-contact jerseys. pic.twitter.com/CWI6grOF61

— TSN 690 Radio (@TSN690) March 20, 2023

The Canadiens’ forward ranks have been decimated of late, as the above three, along with Cole Caufield, Juraj Slafkovsky, Sean Monahan, Christian Dvorak and Joel Armia have missed significant time this time season.

With Caufield, Dvorak and Slafkovsky out for the season, and no word on the rehab of Armia and Monahan; the Canadiens will take whatever positive news they can get at this point.

Sticking Around

Despite having their seasons both cut short with shoulder injuries, Cole Caufield and Arber Xhekaj have been present in Montreal during the entire season.

Today was no exception as the youngsters took in the Montreal Canadiens’ practice yet again and joked around with their teammates as they continued their light-hearted practice.

It’s a testament to the positive environment the Canadiens have been building of late, despite their current record this season; a place where hockey players can come to the rink to enjoy the sport and grow stronger together.

Et les tannants #habs #caufield #xhekaj pic.twitter.com/JitZnCa2r6

— Frédérique Guay (@frederiqueguay) March 20, 2023

Still Missing

On the bad news front, Kaiden Guhle was still missing from practice today upon Montreal’s return from their recent road trip.

The 21-year-old defencemen once again injured his knee at the Flo Live Arena, this time falling into the boards with Colin White; with his knee being the primary point of contact.

The youngster did not participate in practice in Tampa Bay and was ruled out for Saturday night’s game against the Lightning.

We have yet to receive news on his condition, but, missing two practices, and possibly two games in a row, is not a good sign.