Before tonight's game against the Chicago Blackhawks, Martin St-Louis tempered expectations about Kirby Dach's projected return date.
According to what the Canadiens communicated, the target return to play was around December 28.
On November 16, the organization confirmed a foot fracture and an absence of 4 to 6 weeks. When you do the math, that brings you right to the end of December.
We also know that, in recent days, we saw Kirby Dach skating with his teammates, but Martin St-Louis just responded regarding his return to play.
Caution on Dach's Return Despite Full-Equipment Practice
The Canadiens want to avoid forcing the issue with a player who has already gone through two difficult seasons health-wise. If Dach returns around December 28, Martin St-Louis gets a center back without touching the rest of the group.
In mid-November, Joshua Roy had been recalled to fill the spot, but he was later reassigned to the Rocket.