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In recent days, Eric Engels has opened the door to seeing the excellent Kaiden Guhle move up his timetable and return to action sooner rather than later.
And yesterday, on Tony Marinaro's Sick Podcast, he reiterated his point.
In effect, the Sportsnet reporter said he'd be “a little surprised” if the defenseman didn't miss tomorrow. But in any case, he expects to see him play this week.
Habs Will Be Getting Major Reinforcements Soon! | The Sick Podcast with Tony Marinaro & @EricEngels January 5, 2026 https://t.co/E4AdIbcscd
– Tony Marinaro (@TonyMarinaro) January 6, 2026
That's what we call big reinforcements.
Of course, Guhle hasn't really been seen on the ice in recent days, considering the club was on the road and it was the holiday season for everyone.
But this is different.
We know that Guhle's return, whenever that may be, will really help the defensive brigade. A lot of guys are going to take a little less, which is a good thing.
That said, I can't wait to see the impact this has on Lane Hutson. I say that because the chances of them playing together are good… and right now, the American is running well with Alexandre Carrier.
In fact, since his return to the left, Hutson has become one of the elite. Will Guhle be asked to play on the right when he returns from injury? I'm not sure.
Lane Hutson was moved to the left side of Montreal's defense on Dec. 11 . htt ps://t.co/Z0i1p11cLf pic.twitter.com/plMt85v8HS
– Arpon Basu (@ArponBasu) January 5, 2026
That's why we're wondering whether Guhle should take his place in the top-4 as soon as he returns. But at the same time, Arber Xhekaj and Jayden Struble are also left-handed… #Headache
Adam Engstrom is expected to return to Laval to make room for Guhle.
extension
The Canadiens will practice at 10:30 this morning. We fully expect Guhle to be at today's practice, barring any major surprises.
Will Martin St-Louis and Kent Hughes (who will give his mid-season review at noon) give any details? Who knows.
We can also expect the GM to be asked about Kirby Dach, who should be back in the game according to his basic timetable. Will answers also be offered on Josh Anderson, Jake Evans, Patrik Laine, and Alex Newhook?
To be seen in due course.
