Kirby Dach's return timeline faces scrutiny after Kent Hughes' press conference remarks
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On Tuesday, Kirby Dach still has not been given the green light, and patience is starting to wear thin in Montreal.
On November 16, 2025, the Montreal Canadiens announced a fracture to Dach's right foot, with an expected absence of four to six weeks. It is now January 6, 2026, and he still has not skated with his teammates in a return-to-play context.
It has now been more than seven weeks since the announcement, and the silence is becoming a topic in itself.
During the Canadiens' midseason press conference, Kent Hughes reiterated that the organization has no intention of rushing the process. He also pointed out a detail that stands out: the foot fracture is on the same side as Dach's surgically repaired knee. In a case like this, the directive is simple: the Canadiens want him back at 100 percent, not halfway.
Kent Hughes lets slip a clue about the arrival of Kirby Dach
When a journalist raised the delay in his return, Hughes let slip remarks that quickly generated buzz.
"Wasn't it supposed to be 6 to 8 weeks?" - Kent Hughes
"Kent Hughes says the Canadiens are being very careful with Kirby Dach's return because his fracture was on the same leg where he suffered the most recent knee injury. They want him at 100% before he comes back."
- Eric Engels
- Eric Engels
What changes the tone around all of this is that the club can afford to be patient. After 42 games, Montreal holds a 23-13-6 record for 52 points, which places them third in the Atlantic Division.
When you're maintaining your pace in the standings, it helps avoid rushed decisions, especially with other injury situations also progressing.
Before getting injured, Dach was still producing tangible numbers. He played 15 games in 2025-26, with 5 goals, 2 assists, and 7 points. He is 24 years old and remains an important piece for the team when he is available.
His contract expires at the end of 2025-26, which puts even more focus on what comes next, even if health remains the priority.
Kent Hughes has chosen caution, and it aligns with the context. The next real indicator will be simple: the day Dach returns to the ice with the group, the conversation will change tone.
During his press conference, Kent Hughes also addressed the situation involving the three goaltenders, emphasizing that there will be no immediate change for now; however, the goal is to eventually carry only two goalies.
Also read on All Montreal Hockey :
Canadiens organization announces another injury, four-to-six week absence confirmed
Canadiens organization announces another injury, four-to-six week absence confirmed
| POLL | ||
JANVIER 6 | 526 ANSWERS Kirby Dach's return timeline faces scrutiny after Kent Hughes' press conference remarks Should Kent Hughes be cautious with Kirby Dach? | ||
| Yes | 488 | 92.8 % |
| No | 38 | 7.2 % |
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