Training camp is always a time of excitement and uncertainty for NHL fans, and this year, the Montreal Canadiens have delivered an unexpected twist that has everyone talking.

As the team prepares for the upcoming season, one name has emerged at the center of a puzzling development—Kirby Dach.

Once seen as a key piece of Montreal’s forward group, Dach’s journey through the offseason has been anything but smooth, and recent decisions by the coaching staff have only deepened the mystery surrounding his role on opening night.

With rumors swirling about lineup changes and whispers of behind-the-scenes drama, the Canadiens’ latest move has left supporters and analysts alike searching for answers.

Is this a strategic shakeup, a response to lingering health concerns, or a bold attempt to spark new chemistry on the ice?

The situation is further complicated by unexpected groupings in practice, raising even more questions about the team’s plans and Dach’s future.

As Montreal gears up to face a formidable rival in their season opener, the stakes couldn’t be higher.

But with so much uncertainty surrounding one of their most promising forwards, fans are left wondering what surprises might be in store. The full story—and its implications—are still waiting to be revealed.

Kirby Dach

Photo credit: NHL.com

The Montreal Canadiens have made their first change of training camp and it involves former Chicago Blackhawks forward Kirby Dach.

Former Chicago Blackhawks forward Kirby Dach’s summer has been plagued with terrible news to say the least.

The young player’s fate at playing opening night has been in question over the span of this offseason season due to his repeated injury history.

The latest change by the Canadiens’ coaching staff, led by Martin St. Louis, could hint towards Dach not being available for game one of the regular season.

Kirby Dach swapped groups in Montreal Canadiens practice

Despite his projected linemates for opening night being all but confirmed to be Ivan Demidov and Patrik Laine, he has been moved to a separate on-ice training group, away from the duo.

There is some great confusion involving Dach with the Canadiens, to say the least, as St. Louis has repeatedly stated that he’s their second-line center.

Contradictory to the group he’s now in during training camp, which all appears to be third- or fourth-line players:

Owen Beck, Zachary Bolduc, Brendan Gallagher, Jake Evans, Josh Anderson, and more.

The Fourth Period’s David Calabretta has confirmed it:

“Kirby Dach has changed group away from Ivan Demidov and Patrik Laine.”

– David Calabretta

The reporter also revealed a new intriguing trio to the Canadiens, including a new addition, Zachary Bolduc.

“I think a Newhook-Dach-Bolduc line could be very successful.”

– David Calabretta

The Canadiens will have to have their lines locked in stone soon, as they’re prepared to take on the Toronto Maple Leafs in game 1 of the NHL’s regular season on October 8.