Kaiden Guhle's possible return date emerges as Canadiens prepare for key decision
Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images
We have movement in the Kaiden Guhle file with the Montreal Canadiens.
Guhle is really closing in on a return, and it will force a decision on defense. It is said to be close to being confirmed (possibly as early as noon today).
On the Sick Podcast, Eric Engels suggested that it's coming quickly. He said he would be surprised if Guhle does not play on Wednesday. He also expects to see him on the ice Tuesday at practice, so literally within the next few minutes.
The Montreal Canadiens have not yet officially confirmed the exact date. But when a player is announced as being "ahead of schedule," it fuels speculation. Especially when you know the lineup is already tight.
Guhle has been out with a lower-body injury announced by the team. At the time, the Club was talking about an absence of four to six weeks.
This season, he has played only five games, with two points, including one goal.
Return to play on the verge of being confirmed for Kaiden Guhle: another defenseman will have to pay the price
At 23 years old, Guhle already counts as an important piece for the Canadiens. He is also signed long term, with a six-year contract. His annual salary is $5.55M, and that becomes quite a bargain for the Tricolore if he can stay available and healthy.
Guhle's return means one simple thing: someone will have to head to the press box. Right now, Jayden Struble and Arber Xhekaj are the two names coming up the most.
That's where the discussion becomes delicate for Martin St-Louis. You don't want anyone to lose rhythm, but you can't play seven defensemen. And with the schedule piling up, every decision is scrutinized closely.
We are now waiting for the final word from the Canadiens, and it should come very soon. If Engels is right, Tuesday will provide the first real clue. And if Guhle plays Wednesday, one defenseman will be surprised and disappointed, guaranteed.
"I think based on what I heard, if he doesn't play Wednesday, I'll be a little bit surprised. But I expect to see him this week. I think he's a little ahead of schedule and I think he'll be on the ice for practice tomorrow. I think once he gets that practice under his belt, it's just a matter of time whether it's Wednesday or right up again this weekend, we'll see. But he's coming back."
- Eric Engels
- Eric Engels
Story to follow.
UPDATE
The Canadiens have confirmed Kaiden Guhle was back practicing with the group this morning.
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| POLL | ||
JANVIER 6 | 1288 ANSWERS Kaiden Guhle's possible return date emerges as Canadiens prepare for key decision Who should head to the press box when Kaiden Guhle returns? | ||
| Jayden Struble | 895 | 69.5 % |
| Arber Xhekaj | 109 | 8.5 % |
| Alexandre Carrier | 284 | 22 % |
| List of polls | ||