The Montreal Canadiens are in the news on this Sunday ahead of the holiday season. Unfortunately for Hab fans, it is the type of thing they are all to familiar with. Forward Jake Evans is being put on the injured reserve. It is a lower-body injury, likely targeted on the right knee. Let’s find out what this means for the Habs, big picture.
Another Forward Injury for the Habs, this One to Jake Evans
Jake Evans was a victime on a knee on knee (right one) and left the game quickly. Wasn’t seen on @CanadiensMTL bench since.
— Renaud Lavoie (@renlavoietva) December 21, 2025
In yesterday’s 4-0 win versus the Pittsburgh Penguins, Evans took a knee-on-knee hit. He left the game and now we get this the news today. This is tough news for Montreal for a couple of reasons.
Les Canadiens ont rappelé l’attaquant Samuel Blais du Rocket de Laval.
The Canadiens have recalled forward Samuel Blais from the Laval Rocket.#GoHabsGo pic.twitter.com/OQeEfQbmyn
— Canadiens Montréal (@CanadiensMTL) December 21, 2025
If we look at Evans, more from an individual standpoint, this injury hurts. For a player in a depth role, his production of five goals and five assists in 33 games is decent. In addition, he’s around his career average at 15:12 of ice time this season. He takes a lot of faceoffs, something he has done for Montreal the past few seasons. This year’s faceoff win percentage of 54.1% is a career high rate for him. Having a consistent and reliable player like Evans has been crucial for Montreal. This idea is further amplified by the fact the Habs have been banged up this year. One reason he hasn’t been better statistically, is having to play against tougher assignments, given all the injuries.
Currently, the Montreal Canadiens have had three significant forwards missing extended time. Those players include Patrik Laine, Kirby Dach, and Alex Newhook. Therefore, it isn’t difficult to see how the Habs depth has been tested.
How Does this Affect the Surrounding Parts
Evans has played with Josh Anderson and Brendan Gallagher a lot this year. They are an important trio that head coach Martin St. Louis relies on during tight games. They can mix in offence or are able to play a smart, shutdown game. This injury will only further test St. Louis and his ability to gameplan for the juggling of parts. One positive is they have solid help available on the farm.
Based on the news, Sammy Blais has been recalled from the AHL’s Laval Rocket. He has played well since being released from the rival Toronto Maple Leafs earlier this season. He is up to a point-a-game in nine contests for Laval. Moreover, he will help Montreal, but they probably would like some offence given who’s out. Recent acquisitions Alexandre Texier and Phillip Danault will help in that regard. However, Montreal needs someone to step up offensively. One thing we know, is general manager Kent Hughes is being very proactive.
Main Photo: Eric Bolte-Imagn Images
Jake Evans on IR @CanadiensMTL
— Renaud Lavoie (@renlavoietva) December 21, 2025
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