The Montreal Canadiens are once again facing the dreaded injury curse, this time striking before the season has even begun. The unfortunate news is that forward Rafael Harvey-Pinard has suffered a broken leg that will require surgery, sidelining him for at least four months. This setback comes after a season plagued by injuries, which led to a decline in his production. Harvey-Pinard had a stellar campaign with 14 goals in 34 games, but saw his numbers drop to just two goals in 45 games last season. The upcoming 2024-25 season was supposed to be a statement season for him, a chance to prove himself after a disappointing year.
In light of Harvey-Pinard’s injury, the Canadiens are considering their options for a replacement. One player who might benefit from this situation is Barre-Boulet, who could secure a regular spot in the team’s bottom six. This presents a golden opportunity for him to solidify his place in the NHL roster.
Another potential candidate is prospect Emil Heineman, who has caught the eye of Canadiens staff. Heineman, a key piece in the Tyler Toffoli trade, showed promise in training camp last year and even had a chance to play alongside top players like Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield. With his mix of size, speed, and scoring ability, Heineman could be a valuable addition to the Canadiens’ lineup, especially with a vacancy on the left wing.
Michael Pezzetta is also in contention for a more prominent role in the team. Known for his physicality, Pezzetta has been in and out of the lineup but has proven to be a valuable asset when given the chance to play. With Harvey-Pinard out, Pezzetta has a chance to claim a spot on the fourth line and establish himself as a regular contributor.
Among the other players vying for a spot on the roster are Owen Beck, Oliver Kapanen, and Sean Farrell. While these young prospects have potential, they may need more time to develop in the AHL before making the jump to the NHL. However, a strong showing in training camp could propel them into the Canadiens’ lineup sooner than expected.
As the Canadiens navigate through this injury setback, they will be relying on their depth and young talent to step up and fill the void left by Harvey-Pinard’s absence. With multiple options to consider, the team is hopeful that they can weather the storm and still find success in the upcoming season.