Canadiens announce multiple line changes as Kirby Dach returns vs. Wild

Several changes have been announced to Martin St-Louis' lineup for tonight's game against the Minnesota Wild.

Just as he seemed to be establishing himself as a regular, Arber Xhekaj has received more bad news. He has been pulled from the lineup for tonight's game, in favor of Jayden Struble.

See the official announcement from the Montreal Canadiens:

Yes, the Canadiens are shaking up their lineup once again: Kirby Dach and Jayden Struble are back, while Arber Xhekaj is the odd man out, as forward Alexandre Texier is considered day-to-day with a lower-body injury.

When the Canadiens announce two returns on the same day, it never goes unnoticed, especially when it means a defenseman like Xhekaj is being left out.

In the locker room, this kind of decision is rarely "just a rotation."

For Dach, the timing is interesting because his numbers this season stand out. In 15 games, he has 5 goals and 7 points, with a shooting percentage of 22.7%.

We know what he's capable of.

Even his overall profile tells the story of a player who can produce when he's in rhythm.

In the NHL, Dach has appeared in 284 games, with 48 goals and 128 career points.

As for Struble, his return to the lineup comes with modest but clear production.

This season, he has 6 assists, 6 points, and 36 penalty minutes, placing him in a very specific role.

Meanwhile, Xhekaj finds himself in the stands.

It's part of the day-to-day reality of a season, but it's also a direct reminder: nothing is guaranteed.

As for the other changes, Jakub Dobes has been confirmed as the starter in goal tonight against the Wild.

Tonight, the focus will quickly shift to one simple question: how will Martin St-Louis manage Dach's minutes with his return to action?

Also read on Montreal Hockey Fanatics :
Martin St-Louis makes two interesting decisions ahead of game vs. Wild as lineup changes loom