Well, we've been waiting for a while, haven't we? I can't say that Habs fans have been patient about this; we fans have been eagerly awaiting the signing of our newly acquired centreman Kirby Dach.
On September 7, 2022, Kirby Dach was signed to a 4-year, 13.45 million dollar contract (Source: CapFriendly). With an AAV of 3.36 million and a term that expires when he turns 25, the Habs could not have asked for more. Dach (who turned 21 in January) has not had the start to his career that many expected, but injury and other factors have hindered his development. At 25, he should have broken into his prime and started to reach his full potential.
After Kirby Dach was acquired on draft day, Habs fans have wondered what his role would be in the lineup. As a former third overall pick, his talent has never been in question, although his results certainly have. His faceoff percentage was an abysmal 32.8% last year, worse than the years prior (Source:Statmuse). Even though I believe faceoff percentage is often held in higher regard than it should be; the fact remains that Dach will likely never be the first choice to take a defensive draw or even take the faceoff on a powerplay. His faceoffs will need to be coached and MUST improve to at least 40% in order for him to be trusted at the centre position.
Dach put up 26 points in 70 games last year. This number by itself does not look like second line centre material, but it's important to note that his role on the team changed drastically during the season because of roster changes. Comparing the first and last quarters of his season makes it easier to see why his points totals dropped. In his first 20 games, Dach scored 3 goals and added 5 assists. He was playing upwards of 19 minutes a game and was getting two and a half minutes of powerplay time per game. In his last 10 games (he missed 10 games out of his last 20 because of injury), he scored 1 goal and 2 assists while averaging 15 minutes a game and a minute of powerplay time (Source). He went from playing first-line minutes to third-line minutes with limited special team opportunities. This severe dip in playing time and quality of linemates can be an explanation for his lackluster stat line.
When looking at Kirby Dach as a future Canadien, I believe it essential to look at him through rose-tinted glasses. You need to look at him and see a 6'3, 21 year old centre with talent coming out of every pore who's got a fresh start with a new, young, exciting team. Kirby Dach was selected third overall for a reason; he has all-star talent, simple as that. Under the guidance of Martin St Louis and his development staff, I believe Kirby Dach will find his game and blossom into the player he can and wants to be.
Go Habs Go
The Beer League Bench Warmer,
Will Shoukri
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