The Montreal Canadiens have experienced a mix of success and challenges over the last few seasons, with moments of optimism overshadowed by setbacks such as losses, unusual contracts, and injuries. Kirby Dach embodies this tumultuous journey. The organization advocates for patience, having witnessed Dach’s difficulties, and he has the opportunity to repay their faith in him.
**Dach’s Time in Chicago and Challenges**
Born in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, Dach honed his hockey skills at Garner Lake during his early years. His dedication and ability eventually led him to be drafted by the WHL’s Saskatoon Blades in the 2016 Bantam Draft, culminating in his selection as a first-round pick by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2019 NHL Draft. Selected third overall, Dach quickly earned playing time, appearing in 64 games during his rookie season (2019-20) and scoring eight goals with 15 assists. However, a wrist injury in December 2020 hindered his development during the 2021 IIHF World Junior Championship, limiting him to just 18 games that season.
Dach struggled to make an impact during the 2021-22 season, posting nine goals and 17 assists in 70 games for a struggling Blackhawks team. Subsequently, he was traded to the Canadiens during the 2022 NHL Draft, transitioning from one rebuilding franchise to another before turning 24.
**A Mixed Start with the Canadiens**
Montreal’s management recognized the potential in the 21-year-old Dach, rewarding him with a four-year, $13.45 million contract set to expire after the 2025-26 season. His tenure in Montreal began positively, as he scored a career-high 38 points (14 goals, 24 assists) in 58 games during the 2022-23 season, despite the team suffering a minus-75 goal differential. Unfortunately, injuries once again plagued him, leading to limited games played.
The summer of 2023 offered Dach a chance to recuperate and prepare for the following season. However, he tore his ACL in just the second game of the 2023-24 season against the Blackhawks, effectively ending his campaign prematurely.
**Dach’s Slow Recovery in 2024-25**
Describing the 23-year-old’s return to form as slow is both accurate and somewhat unfair. With only one goal and seven assists in 20 games, along with a minus-15 rating—the lowest on the team—Dach has faced challenges in regaining his confidence.
His frustrations peaked on November 23 during a game against the Vegas Golden Knights when a mistake in the defensive zone led to a turnover and a goal that put his team down 2-0. After the game, Dach openly acknowledged his disappointment with his performance and recognized the urgency to improve.
**The Importance of a Comeback**
Dach’s ups and downs mirror the overarching struggles of the Canadiens since their remarkable Stanley Cup run in 2021. While the team possesses talent and occasionally shows promise, they have grappled with injuries, wavering mental resilience, and losing streaks.
The call for patience is rooted in Dach’s potential. Despite a poor showing against Vegas, he has demonstrated his ability to contribute, evidenced by a 53% Corsi percentage, ranking third among Montreal forwards, and solid high-danger expected goals stats. Although his goal and assist totals aren’t impressive, he is engaged in gameplay.
Questions arise about whether Dach could benefit from a lesson in discipline, akin to Arber Xhekaj’s experience earlier this season, which seems to have improved Xhekaj’s performance. Dach might also flourish playing on the third and fourth lines. However, rough nights are part of the journey for a player with significant potential. The key for Dach, especially after missing a full season, is finding his rhythm again, which takes time. There is still plenty of hockey left in the 2024-25 season, and Dach has the chance to surprise fans.
