There’s a buzz in the air around Montreal as the Canadiens gear up for a new season, and nowhere is that energy more palpable than in Brossard.

The CN Sports Complex has been a hive of activity, with nearly every player already in town and hitting the ice—weeks ahead of the official training camp.

Something feels different this year. The team is united, focused, and clearly on a mission. As insiders whisper about the hunger and drive of this young squad, fans and analysts alike are watching with anticipation.

Yet, amid all this excitement and optimism, one notable absence has sparked a wave of speculation.

Brendan Gallagher, the heart-and-soul forward who’s become synonymous with grit and passion in Montreal, is nowhere to be seen at the early practices.

In a preseason full of surprises, Gallagher’s absence stands out—and has left many wondering what could possibly keep such a dedicated player away from his teammates at such a crucial moment.

Rumors have begun to swirl, and social media is ablaze with theories. Is it injury? Personal issues? Or something else entirely?

The answer, as it turns out, may be more unexpected—and heartwarming—than anyone could have guessed.

Apr 14, 2025; Montreal, Quebec, CAN; Montreal Canadiens right wing Brendan Gallagher (11) looks on in warm-up before the game against the Chicago Blackhawks at Bell Centre. Mandatory Credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

Photo credit: David Kirouac-Imagn Images

There’s been a lot of action lately in Brossard for the Montreal Canadiens.

The vast majority of the players are now in town.

They’re already all training at the CN Sports Complex, even though the official training camp doesn’t start for more than two weeks!

Something special is clearly happening within this team.

The players are on a mission!

“When a young team is hungry for victory, it’s extremely dangerous!”
– Renaud Lavoie

That said, even though pretty much all the players are there, one in particular is absent.

That player is Brendan Gallagher.

That being said, there’s an excellent reason to explain his absence.

Brendan Gallagher has a very good reason for his absence and should be back shortly

As reported by the excellent Karine Hains, Gallagher is at his brother’s wedding.

“Wondering why Brendan Gallagher isn’t skating in Brossard yet? He’s got a very good reason, since his brother got married” – Karine Hains

And there you have it!

It’s his wife Emma Fortin who shared the photos.

So, we can expect Gallagher to join his teammates afterwards, and more importantly, to be fully ready for the start of Canadiens training camp.

Brendan Gallagher, 33 years old, is a 5-foot-9, 185-pound forward who put up a solid 38 points in 82 games last season, including 21 goals, and has 464 career points in the NHL.

We love this player and wish him another great season!