Canadiens Defenseman Guhle Returns to Practice

Injured blueliner wears regular jersey, expected to play in key home game against Blue Jackets

Apr. 11, 2026 at 3:38pm

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An abstract, expressionist painting in neon colors depicting the chaotic energy and movement of a professional hockey game, with players' forms dissolving into vibrant brushstrokes.The Canadiens' playoff push intensifies as injured defenseman Kaiden Guhle returns to practice, bringing renewed energy to the team's final home game of the regular season.Columbus Today

With only three games left in the regular season and the Montreal Canadiens fighting for first place in the Atlantic Division, the team received some good news as defenseman Kaiden Guhle participated in an optional practice on Saturday morning wearing a regular jersey, indicating he is likely healthy enough to play in the upcoming home game against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Why it matters

Guhle's return is crucial for the Canadiens as they look to secure home-ice advantage in the first round of the playoffs. The 21-year-old has been a key part of Montreal's defensive corps this season, and his presence will be important against a Columbus team still clinging to slim postseason hopes.

The details

Guhle has missed the Canadiens' last two games due to an undisclosed injury. His participation in the optional skate, wearing a regular jersey rather than a non-contact sweater, suggests he has recovered and should be available for the upcoming home game against the Blue Jackets.

  • The Canadiens have only three games remaining in the regular season.
  • Montreal's next game is at home against the Columbus Blue Jackets on April 11, 2026.

The players

Kaiden Guhle

A 21-year-old defenseman for the Montreal Canadiens who has been a key part of the team's defensive corps this season.

Martin St-Louis

The head coach of the Montreal Canadiens, who is leading the team's push for first place in the Atlantic Division and home-ice advantage in the playoffs.

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What they’re saying

“Well deserved for the man who was able to morph into a new kind of defenseman to fill the team's needs”

— Karine Hains

What’s next

The Canadiens will host the Columbus Blue Jackets on April 11, 2026, in a key late-season matchup as Montreal looks to secure first place in the Atlantic Division.

The takeaway

Guhle's return to practice in a regular jersey is a positive sign for the Canadiens as they enter the final stretch of the regular season. His presence will be crucial as Montreal aims to lock up home-ice advantage for the playoffs.