Kirby Dach Exits Game with Upper-Body Injury Following Hit from Jeffrey Viel

Montreal Canadiens forward Kirby Dach left the game against the Anaheim Ducks on Sunday night due to an upper-body injury sustained from a high hit by Ducks winger Jeffrey Viel. The incident occurred just three minutes into the first period when Dach attempted to play the puck but was caught off guard by Viel's hit. Dach fell to the ice and was seen covering his face with his gloves before slowly making his way to the bench and subsequently to the dressing room. No penalty was assessed on the play.

Canadiens forward Dach exits vs. Ducks with upper-body injuryESPNCanadiens’ Kirby Dach leaves game with upper-body injuryHeavyKirby Dach leaves Sunday game against Ducks with apparent injury

Dach's injury raises concerns about its severity, particularly given his history of injuries this season. He has previously missed time due to a fractured foot and has not played a full 82-game season in his NHL career. Medical expert Dr. Harjas Grewal expressed concerns that Dach could be facing a separated shoulder or potentially a broken collarbone, which would significantly impact his season. The Canadiens have not yet provided an official update on the extent of Dach's injury, but further evaluations are expected soon.

HeavyCanadiens’ Kirby Dach leaves game with upper-body injuryKirby Dach leaves Sunday game against Ducks with apparent injuryCanadiens forward Dach exits vs. Ducks with upper-body injuryESPN

Dach's absence is a significant blow to the Canadiens, who are currently in a competitive position in the Atlantic Division. With approximately five weeks left in the regular season, the team will need to adapt in his potential absence. Other forwards, such as Zachary Bolduc or Joe Veleno, may step into his role if Dach is sidelined. The Canadiens are also dealing with injuries to other players, including Patrik Laine, who has only played five games this season due to a core muscle surgery.

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The Canadiens confirmed Dach's exit from the game, stating, "Kirby Dach (upper body) will not return to play tonight." The team is expected to provide updates on his condition following evaluations. The coaching staff and players are preparing for their next game against the Boston Bruins, where they will need to compensate for Dach's absence.

Kirby Dach leaves Sunday game against Ducks with apparent injury

Critics have pointed out the increasing frequency of injuries affecting Dach, raising questions about his durability and the Canadiens' reliance on him. Fans and analysts alike are concerned about the long-term implications of his injury history, especially as the team aims for a playoff run.

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The Canadiens will continue to monitor Dach's condition closely. Updates are anticipated after their next practice or morning skate ahead of their game against the Boston Bruins. The team remains hopeful that Dach's injury will not be severe enough to end his season prematurely, allowing him to potentially contribute during the playoffs if the Canadiens qualify.

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• “Forward Kirby Dach (upper body) will not return to play tonight.” — Canadiens Montréal

Kirby Dach leaves Sunday game against Ducks with apparent injury