Canadiens’ Brendan Gallagher (hand) out at least six weeks after surgery

Montreal Canadiens right wing Brendan Gallagher will miss at least six weeks after having surgery to repair two fractured fingers on his left hand, the team announced Tuesday.

Montreal Canadiens right wing Brendan Gallagher will miss at least six weeks after having surgery to repair two fractured fingers on his left hand, the team announced Tuesday

During Sunday’s 4–2 win over the New York Islanders, Gallagher’s left hand was struck when he blocked a shot from defenseman Johnny Boychuck.

“It’s a big loss,” coach Michel Therrien told reporters. “He’s a big part of the success of this hockey team. But we lost [goaltender Carey Price] for a period of time. For me it’s not an excuse to not keep having success.” 

Gallagher is tied for 23rd in the NHL with 19 points, and is 16th in the NHL with 70 shots on goal.

The team also said Tuesday that center Torrey Mitchell will miss at least another week with a lower-body injury. He has 10 points (5-5) in 20 games this season.

- Kenny Ducey