The Bell Centre might still be echoing from the roar that followed Kirby Dach’s explosive hit against the Seattle Kraken — a single, thunderous moment that turned an ordinary game into one of the most talked-about nights of the Canadiens’ season.

At first, it looked like just another clean, hard check along the boards. But in seconds, it became chaos on ice. Three furious Kraken players charged at Dach, gloves flying, while fans barely had time to process what had just happened. And then, like something straight out of a movie — Arber Xhekaj appeared. Montreal’s “Sheriff” wasted no time, skating in to protect his teammate and making sure no one touched Dach without answering for it.

The sequence has since gone viral, shared across social media by fans, media, and even opposing supporters — not just for the physicality, but for what it revealed about the Canadiens’ growing identity. Under Martin St-Louis, this team isn’t just fast and skilled; they’re united, fearless, and ready to stand up for each other.

Rewatching the game, one thing becomes clear — Dach is finding his true form again. After a long injury stretch, he’s no longer playing cautiously. He’s playing with conviction, using his 6’4 frame to dominate both ends of the ice. His assist on the night was sharp, his presence relentless, and his energy infectious.

What makes this moment special isn’t just the hit — it’s the symbolism. It shows that Dach isn’t just here to score; he’s here to set a tone. And with Xhekaj backing him up, the Canadiens suddenly look like a team that refuses to be pushed around.

If Dach continues to play with this combination of skill and bite, he’s not just going to be an important player for Montreal — he could become one of the emotional cornerstones of the entire franchise.

Something about that hit felt like a turning point — not just for Kirby Dach, but for a young team that’s learning how to fight together… and win together.

Kirby Dach and Arber Xhekaj vs the Kraken

Photo credit: All Habs / NHL

Kirby Dach is making headlines after a very intense sequence against the Seattle Kraken – a solid hit that sparked a full-on storm on the ice.

I have to admit… I went to bed after the first period, it was getting late.

But this morning, I took the time to rewatch the full game, and honestly, Kirby Dach really impressed me!

Of course, the line of Slaf, Caufield, and Suzuki was incredible, especially with Cole making franchise history!

But I really want to talk about Dach!

The young Canadiens center not only contributed offensively with an assist but also delivered a physically intense game.

His involvement led to a sequence that’s generating a lot of buzz today.

Kirby Dach draws a big reaction from the Kraken after a hard hit

In the third period, Dach delivered a solid body check along the boards.

It was a hit that might have been borderline, but legal according to many.

A few seconds later, a full-on scrum broke out.

The Kraken players literally rushed at him, furious over the sequence, as seen in the full video shared by B/R Open Ice.

“Dach is dealing with 3 angry Kraken players, and HERE COMES THE XHEKAJ”

– Marc Dumont

This intensity reminds me just how much Dach can bring a different dimension to the Canadiens’ game.

He doesn’t just create plays or show up in the offensive zone – he genuinely gets under opponents’ skin. I love seeing him use his size.

His game stats speak for themselves: one assist and three hits!

What I especially liked was seeing his teammates’ reaction after the hit.

Arber Xhekaj, true to himself, didn’t hesitate for a second to step in and defend his teammate. In my opinion, it’s that kind of attitude that strengthens a team and shows they’re ready to fight together, no matter the situation.

Let’s remember that Martin St-Louis put him back in the lineup after benching him against the Canucks. Arber brings a different dynamic to the squad and is always there to help.

Dach is proving he can be a strong player on the ice – capable of producing, hitting, and agitating.

If he keeps this up, I truly believe he could become one of the Canadiens’ most important players by the end of the season.