The Montreal Canadiens endured another example of bad luck when third-year winger Rafael Harvey-Pinard needed surgery on July 26. The operation was successful and it mended a damaged leg. Harvey-Pinard will miss four months and is aiming for a return around American Thanksgiving.
For reference, Harvey-Pinard was limited to 45 games due to numerous lower-body injuries during the 2023-24 season, which only adds to the horrible luck he’s had while with the Habs.
Pinard concluded the regular season with 2 goals and 8 assists for 10 total points while averaging 12:38 of ice time per game.
“Forward Rafael Harvey-Pinard underwent successful surgery on Thursday after suffering a broken leg,” the Habs noted in the official statement. “The recovery period for the 25-year-old winger is estimated to be four months.”
The Canadiens, however, have various choices to fill his spot. Prospects Owen Beck, Filip Mesar, and Joshua Roy might have a shot to crack the rotation and make the opening night roster with Harvey-Pinard out.
Additionally, players like Michael Pezzetta could see more ice time early in the season making up for the winger’s absence.
Harvey-Pinard is anticipated to be placed on long-term injured reserve, offering some cap relief for the Canadiens as he recovers. His cap hit of $1.1 million won’t go against the Habs cap until he gets re-activated.
Meanwhile, the IR placement will open up roster flexibility, allowing the team to manage the early portion of the season without him.
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