Montreal Canadiens: Ryan Poehling out indefinitely with a concussion

Ryan Poehling scored a hat trick in his first NHL game last season. It might be a while before he plays again, as the Montreal Canadiens forward is out indefinitely with a concussion.

Last season, the Montreal Canadiens narrowly missed the postseason. One of the highlights of their season came in the last game. Ryan Poehling, making his NHL debut, gave a performance to remember. He scored a hat trick in his first game against the Canadiens biggest rival, the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Going into training camp, Poehling was expected to compete for a roster spot in a crowded group of forwards. His chances were pretty good, given the strong first impression he gave. However, Poehling likely won’t be starting the season with the Canadiens.

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On Friday, Sept. 20, the team announced Poehling is out indefinitely with a concussion. The timetable for his return is unknown. Poehling will likely miss at least a week or two, though, as we saw with Sidney Crosby back in 2011, it could also be a while.

The Canadiens have a very deep group of forwards, so losing Poehling isn’t the worst thing in the world. As mentioned earlier, he didn’t even have a concrete spot on the team. Even if Poehling did earn a spot, it would have been on their third or fourth line.

His injury gives guys like Dale Weise and Nick Cousins a chance to earn a spot in the lineup, at least until Poehling returns.

It probably opens a spot for Matthew Peca to make the team as an extra forward. Also, Jordan Weal‘s spot in the lineup is now a more sure thing than it was.

Poehling’s injury is very unfortunate for the Canadiens. He’s so talented and so young, so it’s frustrating to see him suffer a concussion. It’s worth noting Poehling had a recent concussion scare in college, as he hit his head hard back in March while playing for St. Cloud State.

No matter how much time he misses, it wouldn’t be surprising if Poehling starts the season in the AHL. He’s exempt from waivers and it would be good for him to build up some confidence before rejoining the NHL.

Poehling is clearly good enough to play in the NHL – he proved that in his debut. But with a deep forward group, the Canadiens can afford to be patient and make sure he’s 100% healthy. It’s not known when Poehling will play in the NHL again, but hopefully, it is soon.