NHL Canadiens Send Marc Del Gaizo Back to AHL After Brief NHL Stint
November 18, 2025 • 8:01 PM EST
Updated 318 days ago
What’s Behind Del Gaizo’s Quick Return to Laval?
Montreal pulled Marc Del Gaizo up from the AHL to give themselves a cushion on defense, but after being scratched for the Blue Jackets game, he’s back to the Laval Rocket. This move isn’t a knock on Del Gaizo, it’s just the reality for a depth defenseman still waiting for that first real NHL shot in Montreal.
Del Gaizo’s journey is familiar in the league—a player on the cusp, serving as insurance for a game then heading right back down. The Canadiens’ approach with him is simple: get him NHL experience when it fits, but make sure he stays sharp with real minutes in Laval when he’s not playing for the big club.
Key Developments for Bettors
- Del Gaizo called up ahead of Nov. 17 but did not play
- Scratched for the Canadiens’ game against Columbus, then sent back to Laval
- Still no regular-season NHL debut for the Canadiens
- Strong AHL numbers: 4 assists, +4 rating in 11 games with Laval
- Signed with Montreal this past off-season after time with Nashville
Why This Move Matters
If you’re tracking Canadiens roster shuffles for daily fantasy or projecting blue line depth, Del Gaizo’s return to Laval keeps him off the board for NHL props or lineups. More importantly, it highlights that Montreal isn’t ready to shake up their existing defensive pairings. This is maintenance, not a hint at big changes ahead.
Marc Del Gaizo’s numbers with Laval show he’s a steady hand—four assists, a plus-4 rating, regular minutes. He can be ready on short notice if needed, but for now, the Canadiens prefer real ice time for their prospects over having them sit in the press box.
What’s Next for Del Gaizo and the Habs?
Del Gaizo should see plenty of AHL action while Montreal keeps a close eye on his development. His NHL experience in Nashville will keep him in mind for future call-ups, especially if injuries mount. For bettors, unless there’s a sudden blue line emergency, Montreal’s roster is exactly what it was before his brief recall.
Key Takeaways
- Del Gaizo remains off the active NHL roster for now
- Depth moves like this suggest no big shifts in Montreal’s defense
- Don’t expect regular NHL minutes for Del Gaizo barring injuries
- Laval remains the spot for his ice time and development
- Bettors should keep him off NHL daily fantasy entries
- Canadiens prioritize prospects’ game reps over bench-warming
- Montreal’s stable blue line is unlikely to change in the near future
- Del Gaizo’s steady play in Laval keeps him on the Canadiens’ radar
“Del Gaizo was called up as extra cover, not as a permanent addition to the Canadiens’ blue line.”
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