The Canadiens prospect Oliver Kapanen has to miss practice and is absent

We knew he was good, but we didn't expect him to adjust so quickly to North American hockey and the smaller rinks. His performance is making Kent Hughes reconsider, leading to some tough decisions ahead.

There's even talk of placing a veteran like Christian Dvorak on waivers to keep Kapanen. Some fans are suggesting that Kent Hughes should buy out Dvorak's contract or trade him with a sweetener, which seems unreasonable during a rebuild.

In any case, Kapanen is surprising everyone, and he will continue to do so during camp-if he can play.

Unfortunately, the Canadiens announced some bad news, as Kapanen will be absent for treatment. It's still unclear if this is precautionary or serious, but it's evident that he's dealing with an issue.

With the strong camp he's having and the opportunity in front of him to make the team, an injury could be catastrophic.

It's worth noting that the Canadiens can't keep Kapanen to send him to Laval; he must play in the NHL or in Europe. If Kent Hughes decides to send him down, he won't be able to recall him until the end of the season there.