NHL · Montreal Canadiens
Canadiens say Chris Kreider will miss six to eight weeks
November 14, 2026 · Team injury update
Chris Kreider will miss six to eight weeks with a lower-body injury, the Canadiens announced Saturday. Montreal’s morning-skate report says Florian Xhekaj will return to the lineup in his place against Colorado at the Bell Centre.
Kreider left Thursday’s 5-2 win at Boston during the third period after a collision with Bruins forward Michael Eyssimont, according to NHL.com. The league’s report places his exit at 6:27 of the period. Montreal’s announcement does not disclose a more specific diagnosis.
Saturday’s immediate lineup change
Kreider has three goals and six assists in 19 games this season. Xhekaj takes his place in Saturday’s lineup, but Montreal has not announced how it will distribute Kreider’s minutes over the longer absence.
The club also confirmed Jakub Dobes as Saturday’s starting goaltender and listed defenseman Mike Matheson as a game-time decision.
Montreal enters the Colorado game 12-3-4. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. Eastern.
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