MAJOR: Kirby Dach on the verge of quitting hockey? That's what almost happened when he was playing in Chicago

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David St-Jean
January 26, 2024 (4:30 PM)

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As you know, Kirby Dach is currently injured and will not return until next season. Some optimists believed he could come back if the Canadiens went far in the playoffs, but that scenario is becoming increasingly unlikely.

By his own admission, Dach is progressing despite not being in the lineup. He participates in practices and watches the games from the press gallery, which helps him see a lot of things.

Recently, on Chris Nilan's podcast, Raw Knuckles, Kirby opened up and was very transparent. If this injury is difficult for him, it's nothing compared to the treatment he received from the Blackhawks.

The team wanted him to strictly play defensive hockey and become a third-line center. So, he had no offensive role, and the organization deemed it fit to give him only defensive assignments.

It wasn't easy for him, and he almost gave up.

"There were too many things going on at the same time. These were dark moments, and I wondered if I could continue. Hockey had become dull because that's not the player I am. I'm not just a defensive center." - Kirby Dach

Since his arrival with the Canadiens, it was clear that there is a lot of offense in Dach's game. In fact, he thanks Martin St-Louis for the great opportunities.

"When he put me on the first line with Caufield and Suzuki, it helped me a lot, a whole lot, to regain confidence." - Kirby Dach

We now understand why there is some resentment between him and the Blackhawks organization. Today, they probably regret lacking vision and patience with him.