The Montreal Canadiens’ 27-year-old center, Christian Dvorak, has suffered a torn pectoral muscle that will require him to sit out the remainder of the NHL season. He is scheduled to undergo surgery on Friday to address the injury.

Dvorak, who has recorded seven points in 25 games this season, recently missed two games after logging nearly 16 minutes of ice time in a match against the Florida Panthers. Canadiens’ coach Martin St. Louis expressed the team’s concern over Dvorak’s absence, noting that his skills in left-handed face-offs, penalty kill, and power play will be sorely missed. St. Louis emphasized that it will take a collective effort from the team to fill the void left by Dvorak’s absence, with other players having to step up and take on additional responsibilities.

Originally drafted by the Arizona Coyotes, Dvorak has amassed a total of 214 points in 447 NHL games. In the playoffs, he has contributed three points in nine games. His career-high came in the 2019-20 season with the Coyotes, where he recorded 38 points.

Montreal, currently in sixth place in the Atlantic Division, is set to face the Buffalo Sabres at the Bell Centre. The team will have to adapt to Dvorak’s absence and adjust their strategies as they continue to compete in the NHL.

It is unfortunate news for the Canadiens and for Dvorak himself, but it opens up opportunities for other players to showcase their abilities and contribute to the team. The road ahead will undoubtedly present challenges, but with a collective effort and strategic adjustments, the Montreal Canadiens will work to overcome the loss of Christian Dvorak and continue to compete at a high level in the NHL.