yardbarker
The Montreal Canadiens have shifted Kirby Dach to their second line, a move that at least one seasoned league observer believes goes beyond simply filling a gap created by injury. On The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro, analyst Pierre McGuire stated that the club is putting Dach on display, suggesting, "I think they're trying to expose Kirby at the highest level so that people might take an interest in him."
The opportunity arose when Ivan Demidov was sidelined for two to four weeks with a lower-body injury, as announced by the Canadiens on Tuesday. Demidov, 20, had recorded a goal and an assist in two games this season, following a 62-point effort in 82 games last year. Florian Xhekaj made his season debut in the same lineup.
Dach and Alex Newhook now occupy top-six roles that the organization would prefer to see as third-line assignments, with Newhook stepping in for the injured Oliver Kapanen. Dach, 25, carries a $3.6 million cap hit on a one-year contract he signed with Montreal in July. He is slated to become an unrestricted free agent this summer, making the next several weeks a crucial audition for his next contract.
Last season, Dach managed just 15 points in 37 games, a far cry from the potential that accompanied his selection as the third overall pick by the Chicago Blackhawks in 2019. Injuries and inconsistent production have plagued him from Chicago to Montreal, and the former top pick has been a major disappointment relative to his draft position.
Trade speculation is nothing new. David Pagnotta, speaking on TheMugNHL Show, characterized Montreal's stance as one of willingness rather than urgency. "I think teams know he's available if the right package's there," Pagnotta said. "I don't think the Montreal Canadiens are actively trying to get rid of him. A lot of teams do this, right; here's some of the guys we're willing to listen on, give us a call when you wanna get serious. I think that's where the Canadiens are with Dach."
The Edmonton Oilers are the team most frequently linked to Dach. Frank Seravalli reported in late September that the Oilers are intent on acquiring him, whether before the season, at the deadline, or as a free agent next summer. "The interest in Edmonton borders on drooling," Seravalli wrote. He also reported that clubs offered Montreal second-round picks for Dach in June, but the Canadiens held out for immediate roster help instead of draft capital.
Demidov's absence gives Dach a defined stretch in the top six. If he produces, Montreal can either keep him or increase his trade value. If he doesn't, the shop window McGuire described may close with little more than the same familiar questions about a player drafted to be a cornerstone and still searching for a role that fits.
Originally reported by yardbarker.