The Montreal Canadiens are at a crucial juncture in their rebuild, and their handling of Kirby Dach will significantly define their path forward. Dach, once a highly touted prospect, has faced significant challenges with injuries, casting doubt on his long-term viability as a top-six center.

Dach's career in Montreal has been plagued by injuries. Since joining the Canadiens in 2022, he has struggled to stay healthy, missing a significant number of games due to various ailments, including knee injuries. Most recently, Dach has been sidelined with a lower-body injury, adding to the concerns about his durability. He has only played a total of 122 games with the Canadiens, recording 64 points.

The Canadiens' management, led by General Manager Kent Hughes, faces a difficult decision regarding Dach's future. When healthy, Dach possesses the skill and potential to be a valuable asset, capable of playing a top-six role. However, his recurring injuries raise questions about his ability to consistently contribute at that level.

There are several paths the Canadiens could take. One option is to continue to be patient with Dach, providing him with the necessary support and opportunity to prove himself once he recovers. This would involve carefully managing his workload and ensuring he has the best possible medical care to prevent further injuries. The Canadiens have already shown a willingness to take this approach, as evidenced by their cautious handling of his return from previous injuries.

Another option is to explore alternative roles for Dach within the lineup. If he is unable to handle the physical demands of playing center, the Canadiens could consider moving him to the wing, where he may be less exposed to injury. Alternatively, they could utilize him in a bottom-six role, where his offensive skills could provide a boost to the team's depth.

A third option, albeit a more drastic one, would be to trade Dach. Given his injury history, his trade value may be diminished, but the Canadiens could potentially acquire assets that better fit their long-term plans. This would free up a roster spot and salary cap space to address other needs.

The Canadiens' rebuild has been focused on building a young core of skilled and high-character players. Key players like Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield have already established themselves as cornerstones of the franchise. The development of other prospects, such as Ivan Demidov and Lane Hutson, is also progressing.

The handling of Dach will have implications for the Canadiens' overall strategy. If he can stay healthy and reach his potential, he could become an important part of their future success. However, if his injury issues persist, the Canadiens may need to adjust their plans and look for alternative solutions to fill the second-line center role.

Ultimately, the Canadiens' decision on how to proceed with Dach will be a defining moment in their rebuild. It will require careful consideration of his potential, his injury history, and the team's long-term goals. How they navigate this situation will provide valuable insights into their overall vision and their ability to build a sustainable contender. As of October 23, 2025, Dach is expected to return to the lineup for the game against the Edmonton Oilers after missing three games with a lower-body injury.