Canadiens: With Dach Out, Where Do Canadiens Go From Here?

Monahan is undoubtedly the simple choice. Currently, as the Canadiens’ third-line centre, you could just move him up a line and, in turn, call up a forward from Laval to play on the fourth line as everyone moves up a line. It’s certainly the easiest choice, and with Monahan’s experience, we know he can handle playing in the top six.

And we know the Canadiens would love to showcase Monahan, fully intending to trade him this season if the compensation is right. If he plays well in a top-six role, it’s hard to envision teams won’t come calling. For that reason, it makes sense to promote him.

But can Monahan handle a larger role physically? The unfortunate reality with him is that he’s been plagued with injuries during his career, including last season. The Canadiens might like to avoid overworking him, opting to keep his role where it is, especially this early in the season.

And despite playing on the third line, Monahan has still played a lot so far this season, as he plays in all situations. They don’t need to play him too much more to showcase him, weakening your bottom six by moving him up the lineup. Still, this is not a bad option, especially in the short term.

Alex Newhook has started the season playing on Kirby Dach’s wing, but he has played centre in the NHL before and is capable of doing so here if needed. With Dach now out, it would not surprise me at all to see the Canadiens opt to slide Newhook inside for the foreseeable future.

Newhook played centre in Colorado previously, and with his speed, he’s more than capable of doing so with the Canadiens. He’s shown good chemistry with Juraj Slafkovsky so far, so I’m sure the Habs would like to keep that duo together for now.

Of course, with Newhook in the middle, that now leaves a spot to fill on the wing. Fortunately, the Canadiens have options here as well. As of the time I’m writing this, Michael Pezzetta is slated to play tonight versus the Minnesota Wild. He’ll almost surely play on the fourth line, with Raphael Harvey-Pinard the likely candidate to move up in the lineup. Harvey-Pinard has the skill to play there and could complement Newhook and Slafkovsky nicely.

Or…

The Canadiens could also call up prospect Joshua Roy to slot in on Newhook and Slafkovsky’s wing. Roy has played in just two games in the AHL with Laval so far, but has registered four points, including two goals. He’s a talented kid who has a bright future. After a pre-season in which he impressed, it wouldn’t be outlandish to give him a cup of coffee here.

Remember, the Canadiens also have Christian Dvorak, who is currently injured but could be back soon. Upon his return, you could send Roy down, but reward him in the meantime for his good play. This would also give the fanbase something to cheer about. They know who Roy is and what he could be.

It’s not just about putting a body there, but a talented player at that. If Roy is going to get an opportunity in the NHL, you don’t want it to be on the fourth line, barely playing. Here is an opportunity to give him top-six minutes alongside talented players.

As far as options go, this is my personal favourite, although I don’t expect to see it come to fruition. But I’m sure it would give fans something to watch if it did happen, softening the blow of losing an exciting player like Kirby Dach.

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