The Montreal Canadiens have announced that forward Kirby Dach will miss the rest of the 2024-25 season following successful surgery on his right knee. The procedure was performed by Dr. Thierry Pauyo in Montreal, and Dach is expected to be fully recovered in time for the start of next season.
Kirby Dach, 23, will finish the 2024-25 season with 10 goals and 12 assists for 22 points in 57 games. While the Canadiens are trying to remain optimistic, his latest injury raises concerns about his long-term durability.
Marco D’Amico of RGMedia highlighted the severity of the situation, writing, “This is the second surgery on the same knee for Kirby Dach in a matter of 16 months (although no confirmation that it’s the same surgery/procedure as last season).”
Dach suffered ACL and MCL tears just two games into the 2023-24 season, keeping him sidelined for nearly a full year. His absence was a significant blow to Montreal’s playoff aspirations. Now, as the team tries to stay in the race this season, they must once again push forward without him.
Unfortunately, Dach’s injury history extends beyond his knee issues. He also missed much of the 2020-21 NHL season due to a wrist injury suffered during the World Junior Championships. That setback likely played a role in the Chicago Blackhawks’ decision to move on from him despite his once-high potential.
L’attaquant Kirby Dach a subi une opération au genou droit. L'opération a été réalisée avec succès par le Dr Thierry Pauyo à Montréal et une guérison complète est attendue avant le début de la prochaine saison.
Forward Kirby Dach underwent successful surgery to his right knee.… pic.twitter.com/BRiYQRfpWb
— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) February 28, 2025
While Dach is expected to recover in time for next season, his recurring injuries remain a troubling pattern for both him and the Canadiens.
What Now for the Canadiens After Losing Dach?
With the Canadiens currently outside the playoff picture, they must decide whether they can stay in the hunt without one of their key forwards—or if they even want to try.
Replacing Kirby Dach is a tough challenge, but given that Montreal isn’t considered a serious Stanley Cup contender, they may opt not to make a move at all. Instead, the team could focus on internal development, giving younger players more opportunities to step up.
If they do choose to add reinforcements, they’ll likely target a short-term, low-cost option rather than a major acquisition. Either way, Dach’s absence leaves a noticeable hole in the lineup as the Canadiens navigate the rest of the season.
