‘You don’t like to see guys get injured’

Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Jarred Tinordi didn’t just replay his season-ending hit on Montreal Canadiens forward Kirby Dach in his mind; he replayed it on tape. Tinordi, in an interview with the Tribune after practice Wednesday at Big Bear Ice Arena in Denver, admitted watching the hit multiple times but couldn’t discern much from the footage.

During the Blackhawks’ 3-2 loss to the Canadiens at Centre Bell on Saturday, Tinordi sent the former Hawk Dach crashing into the Hawks bench. Dach attempted to continue playing but struggled to put weight on his right leg and had to limp off the ice. It was later revealed that Dach suffered ACL and MCL tears.

Tinordi, however, dismissed the incident as a typical hockey play. He claimed he didn’t feel much during the collision, acknowledging that Dach, being a heavy player, attempted a reverse-hit on him. Tinordi emphasized that these things happen in the sport due to its fast-paced nature.

The Canadiens announced on Tuesday that Dach would need surgery on his right knee, causing him to miss the remainder of the season. Tinordi expressed remorse for the injury, acknowledging that while it was part of the game, it’s difficult to witness a player’s season come to an end in that manner.

Dach, who happens to be Colton Dach’s brother, a prospect for the Blackhawks, spent his first three NHL seasons in Chicago before being traded to Montreal during the 2022 NHL draft. He had a career-best season in goals and assists with the Habs, but unfortunately, it was cut short by the injury.

Canadiens coach Martin St. Louis noted that Dach was understandably disappointed, having put in a lot of effort to prepare for the season. Hawks coach Luke Richardson defended Tinordi, stating that it wasn’t a malicious hit, but rather an unfortunate landing that twisted Dach’s knee.

Despite the unfortunate outcome, Richardson mentioned that it’s important not to overthink such incidents as a player. He praised Tinordi’s professionalism, stating that he would continue playing the same way he always has.

Tinordi expressed his desire to reach out to Dach but believed it would be best to give him some space and allow him to focus on his recovery. He understood the disappointment and frustration that comes with an injury and hoped that Dach would take care of himself and come back stronger.

He ended by wishing Dach a speedy recovery.