Canadiens' Guhle to Miss First Playoff Game, Expected Back Soon

Defenseman Kaiden Guhle will sit out the Canadiens' opening playoff game, but is expected to return for the team's postseason run.

Apr. 9, 2026 at 2:36am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the angular, geometric movements of a hockey defenseman, rendered in muted tones of blue, gray, and white to convey the strategic and analytical nature of the team's approach to Guhle's injury.The Canadiens' defensive corps must adapt to Guhle's absence in the opening playoff game, with the team prioritizing his long-term health over short-term needs.Buffalo Today

Montreal Canadiens defenseman Kaiden Guhle will miss the team's first playoff game due to an undisclosed injury, but is expected to be healthy and ready to play in the Canadiens' subsequent postseason games. The team is taking a cautious approach with Guhle to ensure he is fully recovered before returning to the lineup.

Why it matters

Guhle has been an important part of the Canadiens' defensive corps this season, but has also dealt with injury issues throughout the year. The team is being prudent with his recovery to ensure he can contribute during their playoff run without risk of further injury.

The details

Guhle missed the Canadiens' last regular season game and Wednesday's practice, with the team describing it as just a day of treatment. However, reports indicate Guhle is dealing with an undisclosed injury. Despite the missed time, the team expects Guhle to be healthy and ready to play in the Canadiens' first playoff game.

  • Guhle missed the Canadiens' last regular season game on April 8, 2026.
  • Guhle missed the Canadiens' practice on April 9, 2026.

The players

Kaiden Guhle

A defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens who has dealt with injury issues throughout the 2025-26 NHL season.

Renaud Lavoie

A hockey analyst who reported that Guhle would be ready for the Canadiens' first playoff game.

Alexandre Carrier

A Canadiens defenseman who is also currently sidelined due to injury.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“If we were already in the playoffs, Guhle would be on the Canadiens' roster”

— Renaud Lavoie, Hockey Analyst

What’s next

The Canadiens will determine Guhle's status for Game 2 of their playoff series after he misses the opener.

The takeaway

The Canadiens are taking a cautious approach with Guhle's injury to ensure he is fully healthy for their playoff run, even if it means missing the first game. The team is deep enough on defense to weather his absence, but will need Guhle's contributions if they hope to make a deep postseason push.