The Montreal Canadiens are winning, and they’re doing it without Kaiden Guhle – again. It’s starting to raise some interesting questions about their $5.5 million defenseman’s future with the team.
Guhle’s been snake-bitten by injuries since day one in the NHL. When he’s healthy, he’s a force – eating up big minutes and driving the offense from the blue line.
But here’s the thing: the Habs keep rolling without him.
This season’s story feels like déjà vu. Just like last year, Montreal’s found ways to win while Guhle watches from the press box. They’re not just surviving – they’re thriving.
Rookie Jayden Struble has been a revelation, stepping into Guhle’s role like he’s been there for years. And waiting in the wings? David Reinbacher, the team’s top prospect, is knocking on the door.
The Canadiens’ defensive future is getting crowded – and expensive. They’ve already committed big money to Noah Dobson and just locked up Lane Hutson with an $8.85 million extension that kicks in next season. Mike Matheson’s likely looking for a new deal too.
That’s where things get complicated.
While Guhle’s $5.5 million salary isn’t breaking the bank, missing 20-plus games a season changes the conversation. That’s money that could help land a second-line center or add some scoring punch on the wing.
The question isn’t whether Guhle’s talented – he absolutely is. It’s whether the Canadiens can keep betting on a defenseman who’s spent more time in the training room than on the ice these past three years.
