Arber Xhekaj<\/a> could very well have replaced him and performed better.<\/p>\nThe issue is that knee injuries can worsen if they are not treated properly.<\/p>\n
And playing an intense playoff game on an existing injury significantly increases the long-term risks. Especially in Guhle’s case, where injuries have already been a recurring concern throughout his career.<\/p>\n
For Martin St. Louis, this is probably a difficult situation to process today as well.<\/p>\n
The Quebec-born head coach may have been better off prioritizing the long-term health of his young defenseman.<\/p>\n
Inserting Arber Xhekaj into the lineup could potentially have been the better option.<\/p>\n
He clearly preferred Guhle’s experience despite his physical limitations, but was that the right decision?<\/p>\n
It’s important to understand that in the context of a potential elimination game, many head coaches likely would have made the same choice.<\/p>\n
The problem is that the final result did not justify the decision.<\/p>\n
The Canadiens’ full medical report is expected to be officially released in the coming days.<\/p>\n
Previously on Montreal Hockey Fanatics<\/p>\n
POLL<\/p>\n
5 HOURS AGO|200 ANSWERS<\/p>\n
Kaiden Guhle injury report puts Martin St. Louis’ Game 5 decision under scrutiny<\/p>\n
Do you think Martin St. Louis should have forced Kaiden Guhle to sit out Game 5 at PNC Arena, considering he was clearly playing with a left knee injury that could have worsened significantly?<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
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<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Kaiden Guhle injury report puts Martin St. Louis’ Game 5 decision under scrutiny
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