It was supposed to be just another preseason showdown between the Montreal Canadiens and the Toronto Maple Leafs, but what unfolded on the ice was anything but routine.

In a span of mere minutes, the Canadiens’ defensive core was shaken to its foundation, leaving fans stunned and anxious as two of the team’s most crucial blueliners were forced to leave the game.

News broke mid-game that Noah Dobson would not be returning, and before supporters could process that blow, David Reinbacher also disappeared down the tunnel, raising alarm bells about the team’s immediate future.

The sudden loss of Dobson and Reinbacher not only threw Montreal’s defensive strategy into chaos, but also reignited memories of past controversial incidents against Toronto—reminding everyone how quickly things can go wrong in these heated matchups.

With no official updates on the severity of their injuries, the atmosphere in the Bell Centre shifted from excitement to deep concern. The pressure is now squarely on coach Martin St-Louis to navigate this crisis and find answers fast.

As fans hold their breath, uncertainty hangs over the Canadiens, and everyone is desperate to know just how serious tonight’s setbacks might be. What’s really going on behind the scenes?

Photo of Noah Dobson

Photo credit: NHL

The Montreal Canadiens are experiencing an evening that’s taking a worrying turn, as two defensive pillars left the game against the Toronto Maple Leafs.

Both pieces of news came in the middle of the game.

Anthony Martineau of TVA Sports confirmed that Noah Dobson would not be returning to play tonight.

A few minutes later, Marco D’Amico reported that David Reinbacher had also headed to the locker room, leaving the Canadiens without two key defensemen – and more importantly, raising short-term concerns.

These sudden exits did not go unnoticed.

The Canadiens take a hard hit with Dobson and Reinbacher injured against Toronto

Losing Dobson and Reinbacher on the same night is far from ideal.

Last year, Cédric Paré, who plays for the Leafs, was criticized for a dangerous play that knocked Patrik Laine out of a preseason game. That knee-on-knee contact sparked major controversy and worried team management.

The Habs really seem unlucky against Toronto in preseason games.

According to the information available, no details have yet been given regarding the severity of the injuries.

But it’s clear that the pressure is mounting on Martin St-Louis, who will need to quickly adjust his defensive pairings.

For now, the priority will be waiting for official updates, but fans already have a bad feeling.