Canadiens Face roster Decisions as Injuries Mount Ahead of Western Canada Road Trip
Rocket.
The Canadiens are currently dealing with injuries to forwards Kirby Dach and Patrik Laine, both of whom missed practice on October 20, 2025. Adding to the concern is the existing absence of defenseman Jahle Guhle, which necessitates a recall from the Rocket’s defensive corps. According to reports, the team is operating with onyl 12 healthy forwards, a situation one source described as “not ideal.”
“If Laine and Dach aren’t ready to return to action this week, they’re going to need a 13th forward,” a team insider stated.The Rocket boasts several promising candidates, including Alex Belzile, Laurent Dauphin, and Joshua Roy. Though, the name generating significant buzz is that of Florian Xhekaj, whose impact on the ice was promptly noticeable before being reassigned. “The Habs weren’t the same club on the ice when he got shuffled,” one observer noted, raising the possibility of a swift return for the young forward.
On the defensive front, three players are in contention for a recall: Adam Engström, Marc Del Gaizo, and Nathan Clurman. engström reportedly impressed during training camp, while Del Gaizo brings valuable NHL experience, having played 46 games for the Nashville Predators in the 2024-2025 season. Clurman offers a different dimension as a right-handed defenseman. While a preference for Engström exists, a recall of Del Gaizo remains a viable option.
The Canadiens’ management will closely monitor practice in Brossard on Tuesday to assess the recovery progress of Dach and Laine and determine the extent of reinforcements needed. The Rocket is not in action tonight, preventing any immediate clues regarding potential call-ups. Key questions remain: Will the recalled players feature in this week’s games, or will they serve as depth? And if they do play, who will be removed from the lineup? Speculation centers around potential replacements for Struble or Arber Xhekaj on defense, and Owen Beck or Joe Veleno up front.
Beyond the immediate roster concerns, the Canadiens continue to grapple with establishing a consistently physical presence on the ice.
In other sports news, Boston Bruins star Brad Marchand recounted a recent dinner with former teammates Patrice Bergeron, Zdeno Chara, Tuukka Rask, and Adam mcquaid, humorously admitting he paid the bill after being “bullied” by the group.
The lions de Trois-Rivières are set to host the Adirondack Thunder in two games this week,on Friday,October 24th,and Saturday,October 25th. You can relive the atmosphere from last Friday’s game here: https://t.co/sypwOY2sSJ.
Meanwhile,the baseball world awaits the outcome of Game 7 between the Blue Jays and the Mariners,with both teams vying for their frist World Series appearance in decades. The Blue Jays haven’t reached the Fall Classic as 1993, while the Mariners have never made it.
the Canadiens’ upcoming week promises to be a test of depth and resilience as they navigate injuries and a demanding schedule. The decisions made in the coming days will undoubtedly shape the team’s trajectory as they strive to find consistency and build momentum.
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