Canadiens’ Rising Star Alex Newhook Sidelined for 10-12 Weeks with Sprained Ankle

A devastating blow for the Montreal Canadiens as Alex Newhook faces an anticipated 10 to 12 week recovery following a high ankle sprain, as confirmed by the team on Saturday.

The mishap occurred during the Canadiens’ 5-1 defeat to the Florida Panthers on Thursday when Newhook, in pursuit of the net, collided with an opposing player, causing him to lose his footing and crash into the net leg-first in the third period.

Earlier in the game, Newhook’s right skate tangled with Panthers defenseman Brandon Montour, resulting in a twisted right leg as he landed on the ice.

This unfortunate setback will significantly impact the Canadiens (10-11-2) as they’ll be missing a key top-nine, two-way forward during this period, particularly when Newhook was predicted to have his best season yet. Newhook, 22, joined the Canadiens following an offseason trade from the Colorado Avalanche, a year after helping the Avs secure the Stanley Cup as a 2019 first-round pick.

With seven goals and 13 points in 26 games, Newhook was on track to achieve career highs in both categories before the injury struck.