Kirby Dach of the Montreal Canadiens faces a challenging road ahead after undergoing knee surgery on his right knee, the same one that troubled him last year. With the Canadiens stating no timetable for his return, Dach will need to focus on rehabilitation before he can begin his usual summer conditioning. At 24, he has yet to hit the 40-point mark in his career, which raises questions about his future as an offensive asset for the team.

As Dach is set to become a restricted free agent in 2026-27, this recovery period is crucial for both his career and for the Canadiens' evaluation of him. The team is looking to build a competitive roster, and Dach needs to prove he can be a reliable contributor. The additional recovery time may work in his favor, allowing for a stronger performance next season, which is pivotal for his future with the franchise and any potential long-term contracts.