NEWS UPDATED : He is back Montreal Canadiens news and notes · Alex Newhook has returned to full practice and appears ready to make his return from a high-ankle sprain.

1. The Montreal Canadiens have recently announced the return of two pivotal players to their roster: forward Alex Newhook and defenseman Logan Mailloux. Both players have demonstrated significant potential and are expected to make substantial contributions to the team’s performance in the upcoming games.
2. Alex Newhook’s Return

Alex Newhook, acquired by the Canadiens from the Colorado Avalanche on June 27, 2023, in exchange for a first and second-round pick in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft and prospect Gianni Fairbrother, has been a notable addition to the team. The trade reunited Newhook with his former agent, Kent Hughes, who now serves as the Canadiens’ general manager. Following the trade, Newhook signed a four-year, $11.6 million contract extension with Montreal on July 11, 2023.

Newhook made an immediate impact, scoring two goals in his debut game with the Canadiens on October 11, 2023. Initially positioned on the second line alongside Kirby Dach and Juraj Slafkovský, Newhook’s versatility became evident when he transitioned to the center position following Dach’s long-term injury in the second game of the season. Despite facing challenges in this role, he continued to contribute offensively. Before his injury on November 30, 2023, against the Florida Panthers, Newhook had recorded seven goals and six assists, ranking fourth on the team in points. A high ankle sprain sidelined him for 27 games, but he made a triumphant return on February 10, 2024, against the Dallas Stars. Post-return, Newhook achieved personal milestones, including his 200th NHL game on March 19 and his 100th career NHL point on April 16 against the Detroit Red Wings.

Logan Mailloux’s Return

Logan Mailloux, a promising defenseman, has had a noteworthy journey within the Canadiens organization. After being declared eligible to play in the NHL following a meeting with Commissioner Gary Bettman, Mailloux participated in the Canadiens’ training camp in September 2023. He was subsequently assigned to the Laval Rocket, Montreal’s AHL affiliate, on October 3, 2023. Mailloux’s offensive prowess was evident during his time with Laval, leading to his selection for the 2024 AHL All-Star Classic. He concluded the season with 14 goals and 33 assists in 72 games, earning a spot on the AHL All-Rookie Team.

Mailloux’s NHL debut came on April 16, 2024, against the Detroit Red Wings, where he registered an assist. He began the 2024-25 season with the Laval Rocket but was recalled by the Canadiens on October 17, 2024, following an injury to defenseman Kaiden Guhle. Mailloux seized the opportunity, scoring his first NHL goal on October 19 against the New York Islanders. After contributing three points in five games, he returned to Laval on October 30. His consistent performance earned him a second consecutive selection to the AHL All-Star Classic in January 2025.

Impact on the Canadiens

The reintegration of Alex Newhook and Logan Mailloux into the Canadiens’ lineup is poised to bolster the team’s competitiveness. Newhook’s offensive skills and adaptability provide depth to Montreal’s forward lines, while Mailloux’s defensive capabilities and offensive contributions from the blue line add a new dimension to the team’s defense. Their returns are timely, especially as the Canadiens aim to strengthen their position in the standings and make a push for the playoffs.

Head coach Martin St. Louis expressed optimism about their return, stating, “Having Alex and Logan back in the lineup brings a significant boost to our team’s dynamics. Their skill sets and determination align with our goals for the season.”

As the season progresses, the performances of Newhook and Mailloux will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike. Their ability to integrate seamlessly and elevate the team’s play will be crucial factors in the Canadiens’ pursuit of success in the highly competitive NHL landscape.