There was a welcome sight at Canadiens practice on January 16: Kirby Dach, Jake Evans, and Patrik Laine all hit the ice wearing regular jerseys. That’s a big step forward for three forwards who’ve each been sidelined with injuries, and while their return to game action isn’t confirmed just yet, this development signals some real progress.
Let’s break it down.
Kirby Dach hasn’t suited up since November 15 against the Bruins. The 6-foot-4 center had been off to a promising start before the injury bug hit, tallying five goals and seven points in 15 games.
His combination of size, skill, and versatility makes him a key piece in Montreal’s forward group, especially down the middle. Seeing him back in a regular jersey is a strong indicator that he’s trending in the right direction.
Jake Evans, meanwhile, last played on December 20 against Pittsburgh. The gritty, two-way forward had quietly put together a solid campaign before going down, with five goals and five assists through 34 games.
He’s not flashy, but he’s the kind of player coaches trust in all situations - whether it’s killing penalties, winning key faceoffs, or anchoring a checking line. His return would add depth and defensive responsibility to the bottom six.
Then there’s Patrik Laine, who’s had a frustrating season marred by injury. The sniper has only managed five games this year, with his last appearance coming way back on October 16 against Nashville.
One assist is all he’s been able to put on the stat sheet, but we know what Laine can bring when he’s healthy - elite shooting, power-play punch, and the potential to swing momentum with a single shift. If he’s nearing a return, that’s a potential game-changer for Montreal’s offense.
The Canadiens are set to take on the Ottawa Senators on January 17, but as of now, there’s no official word on whether any of these three will be in the lineup. Even if they don’t suit up just yet, their participation in full-contact practice is a positive sign.
It’s not just about getting bodies back - it’s about getting these bodies back. Dach, Evans, and Laine each bring something unique to the table, and their eventual return could give Montreal a serious boost as the season grinds on.
For a team that’s battled through injuries and leaned heavily on its young core, this kind of reintegration could be just what the Canadiens need to stabilize their lineup and push forward.