As the Montreal Canadiens prepare to kick off their preseason in Denver, anticipation is running high among fans and analysts alike.

Every year, these early games serve as a proving ground—a chance for young hopefuls to stake their claim and for veterans to shake off the rust. But this time, all eyes are locked onto one player whose future could shape the entire season: Kirby Dach.

After a string of injuries and missed opportunities, speculation has swirled around whether Dach would finally be given the chance to show what he can do before the regular season begins.

The team’s head coach, Martin St-Louis, has kept his cards close to his chest, fueling intense debate and curiosity across Montreal. What role will Dach play?

Can he reclaim his status as a key offensive weapon? And how might his performance in these crucial games influence the Canadiens’ lineup and chemistry moving forward?

With so many questions hanging in the air, the preseason is suddenly much more than a warm-up—it’s a high-stakes audition for both Dach and the team.

The answers are coming, but for now, fans can only wait, watch, and wonder what surprises St-Louis has in store for the opening games.

Jan 4, 2025; Denver, Colorado, USA; Montreal Canadiens center Kirby Dach (77) before the game against the Colorado Avalanche at Ball Arena. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Photo credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images

Preseason games are always an important time to evaluate players, test combinations, and most of all, prepare for the regular season.

In Montreal, it’s no secret that expectations are high, as several young players want to earn their spot while some veterans need to get back into rhythm.

In this context, a decision by Martin St-Louis is drawing particular attention.

Fans were wondering if a key offensive player would be used right from the preseason. The answer has now been given.

Martin St-Louis Confirms That Kirby Dach Will Play Preseason Games

The head coach confirmed that Kirby Dach will indeed take part in preseason games with the Montreal Canadiens.

This news was welcomed enthusiastically by fans, since Dach hasn’t had the chance to complete a full season since arriving in Montreal.

Injured repeatedly, I still believe he can play a very big role with the Habs this year.

I think sending him into preseason games is a very good thing. It’s clear he’ll need to regain confidence before the regular season.

We want to see him reclaim his role as an offensive pillar and show that he can finally take the next step this year.

I’m also eager to see which line St-Louis will use him on, and who he’ll be paired with. Who knows, maybe even with a certain Ivan Demidov..

Fans will therefore have their eyes on him in the coming days, as Dach’s performance could have a major impact on the Canadiens’ start to the season.