The Montreal Canadiens are facing a tough challenge as Kaiden Guhle, their top shutdown defenseman, is set to miss an indefinite period following surgery for a lacerated quadriceps muscle. Guhle sustained the injury during a recent game against the Winnipeg Jets, leading to his exit in the third period.

At just 23 years old, Guhle has become a key player for the Canadiens, contributing four goals and ten assists this season, while also being a vital part of their penalty-killing unit. His absence will be felt, particularly as the team is vying for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference, trailing the Tampa Bay Lightning for the second wild-card position.