Just minutes before the highly anticipated clash between the Montreal Canadiens and the Toronto Maple Leafs, a sudden and unexpected change rippled through the Canadiens’ lineup—one that left fans and insiders alike scrambling for answers.

Kaiden Guhle, the promising young defenseman expected to anchor the second pairing alongside David Reinbacher, was abruptly scratched from the game.

The news broke so close to puck drop that it sent shockwaves across social media, fueling wild speculation and anxious whispers among Canadiens supporters.

Why would the team make such a drastic move at the last possible moment? Was it a strategic decision, an undisclosed injury, or something more mysterious brewing behind the scenes?

As Marc Del Gaizo, a summer signing on a two-way contract, hurriedly stepped in to fill the void, questions mounted and theories multiplied.

Even seasoned analysts and beat reporters were left in the dark, with only vague hints and unconfirmed reports to go on. The silence from team officials only deepened the intrigue, leaving everyone desperate for answers.

With no official explanation provided and rumors swirling, the real reason behind Guhle’s last-minute absence remains shrouded in secrecy.

What really happened, and what does it mean for the Canadiens moving forward?

Photo of Kaiden Ghule

Photo credit: NHL

Just minutes before puck drop against the Toronto Maple Leafs, the Montreal Canadiens had to unexpectedly change their lineup by scratching Kaiden Guhle – a decision that surprised many fans.

The young defenseman, who was supposed to play alongside David Reinbacher on the second pair, was pulled from the lineup at the last minute.

In his place, Marc Del Gaizo – signed this summer to a two-way contract – was inserted to support the Austrian blueliner.

Kaiden Guhle Pulled from Canadiens Lineup at the Last Minute

According to Renaud Lavoie, the Canadiens’ No. 21 arrived late to the morning skate. Could it be related? Was Martin St-Louis sending a message? Hard to say.

“Guhle showed up late this morning, but nothing confirms that this detail explains his removal from the game,” he said on TVA Sports.

The mystery lingers. It could have been a strategic choice, or perhaps Guhle is dealing with a minor injury that even explained his delay this morning.

For now, the organization has given no official explanation.

I can’t wait to know the real reason. Hopefully everything is fine with Guhle, as he’s clearly one of the Canadiens’ most important players in my opinion.

UPDATE FROM LAVOIE

“Just a clarification (necessary). If Kaiden Guhle was the last to hit the ice this morning, it’s because he had some ‘maintenance’ to do. He is therefore slightly injured, and that’s why he isn’t playing tonight.”

– Renaud Lavoie on Guhle