Canadiens’ Dach Out Indefinitely After High Hit From Ducks’ Viel

Montreal Canadiens forward Kirby Dach is out indefinitely with an upper-body injury sustained during Sunday night’s game against the Anaheim Ducks. The injury occurred three minutes into the first period following a high hit from Ducks winger Jeffrey Viel.

Viel delivered the check as Dach swatted at the puck, leaving the Canadiens forward vulnerable. Dach immediately fell to the ice, clutching his face in his gloves, before being helped off the ice and to the dressing room. Officials did not penalize Viel for the hit, a decision that drew the ire of Canadiens players.

Following the hit, Canadiens defenseman Arber Xhekaj and forward Josh Anderson confronted Viel, but he declined to engage in a fight.

Recent Incidents and Concerns

This incident comes just days after another controversial hit in the NHL. On March 12, 2026, Anaheim Ducks defenseman Radko Gudas ended Toronto Maple Leafs captain Auston Matthews’ season with a knee-on-knee hit. Matthews suffered a torn medial collateral ligament and Gudas was suspended five games – the maximum penalty allowed for a phone hearing.

The Ducks have been involved in multiple controversial plays recently, raising concerns about the team’s physicality and player safety.

Dach’s Role with the Canadiens

Dach has been a key player in the Canadiens’ rebuilding process. His absence leaves a void in the team’s forward lineup, particularly at the second-line center position, a role that has been under scrutiny this season due to ongoing injury challenges.

As of now, there is no timeline for Dach’s return. The Canadiens have not released further details regarding the severity of his injury.