Kaiden Guhle, defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens, is set to travel with the team for their upcoming road trip, marking a significant step in his recovery after undergoing surgery for a lacerated quadriceps muscle back in January. The 23-year-old, who had been performing well with 14 points in 44 games before his injury, skated in a regular jersey during Monday's practice, signaling his return to form.

Despite the Canadiens holding a playoff spot with 75 points, GM Kent Hughes has emphasized caution in bringing Guhle back, stating they will not rush him into the lineup. The Canadiens will embark on a four-game road trip, beginning with a matchup against the St. Louis Blues, with coach Martin St. Louis confirming Sam Montembeault as the starting goalie for the game.

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Kaiden Guhle is set to join the team on its upcoming road trip after successfully recovering from a quadriceps muscle surgery performed in January. Guhle, who was a significant asset to the Canadiens' defense with four goals and ten assists in 44 games, participated in a practice session wearing a regular jersey for the first time since his injury on January 28 against the Winnipeg Jets.

Prior to the injury, Guhle played a vital role in the team's defensive strategies. General manager Kent Hughes indicated that the team would not hasten his return if playoff prospects dwindled. As of now, the Canadiens are in the race, holding the second wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference with 75 points, just ahead of the New York Rangers.

The Montreal Canadiens are contemplating the future of forward Jake Evans, whose pending unrestricted free agency status at a $1.7 million cap hit makes him an attractive trade option. While his ideal role may be as a fourth-line center for a contender, Evans has proven his versatility by playing third-line minutes and being effective at both center and wing. Teams such as the Washington Capitals, Toronto Maple Leafs, New Jersey Devils, Calgary Flames, and Columbus Blue Jackets have shown interest, with the Capitals reportedly offering a second-round pick during the draft.

Despite the current injury to defenseman Kaiden Guhle, the Canadiens remain committed to their long-term strategy. They are not seeking short-term rental solutions but are focused on trades that would benefit the team beyond the current season. The Canadiens are weighing their options for other pending UFAs such as Joel Armia, Christian Dvorak, Michael Pezzetta, and David Savard as they look to build for the future.

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.

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Kaiden Guhle is set to miss an indefinite period following surgery on his lacerated quadriceps. The injury occurred during a match against the Winnipeg Jets, leading to his hospitalization. Canadiens' coach, Martin St. Louis, expressed the team's collective concern over Guhle's absence, highlighting his vital role in various facets of the game including penalty kills and significant ice time.

At just 23 years old and recently signed to a six-year, $33.3 million contract extension, Guhle has made a notable impact this season with 14 points over 44 games. The team has called up Jayden Struble from the AHL to cover for Guhle, who leaves a significant void in the Canadiens' lineup.