With Arber Xhekaj's injury, it quickly becomes apparent that the Canadiens' defense is sorely lacking in physicality. The players were roughed up against the Bruins, who won nearly 80% of the one-on-one battles.
Kent Hughes had to address this, and he decided to do so by recalling defenseman Jayden Struble from the Laval Rocket. Struble has been very solid early in the season, the best defenseman in Laval and the most consistent.
Unfortunately for him, Rafaël Harvey-Pinard has been placed on the injured list. So, his injury seems to be more serious than anticipated.
"The Canadiens have placed forward Rafaël Harvey-Pinard on IR and recalled defenseman Jayden Struble from the Laval Rocket." - Laval Rocket