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While the hockey world’s attention is focused on the Olympic tournament in Italy, there is action happening in Brossard for the Montreal Canadiens.
We had all assumed that forward Alex Newhook would return to play after the Olympic break, but clearly that will not be the case after all.
We were shown some concerning images today from Brossard in that regard.
Unfortunately, the observations regarding Alex Newhook’s health are indeed not very reassuring for what lies ahead.
Journalist Marc-Olivier Cook, who was on site, reported that the forward was training alone this morning.
What is particularly worrying is the player’s apparent pain, as he was grimacing frequently while skating on the ice.
Let’s be honest, seeing an athlete grimace during non-contact individual drills is never a good sign during rehabilitation.
It really does not feel like a return to play is imminent.
In addition, Newhook was taking a lot of time before being able to string together sequences of drills.
A return that seems far off for Alex Newhook
Let’s be real, those who were hoping for a quick return after the Olympic break will probably need to lower their expectations.
The observer’s assessment on site is clear: Newhook still looks very far from an official return to play.
There is still a small positive, as he seems able to reach a certain level of speed in his movements.
However, fluidity and comfort are clearly not there for the Canadiens’ number 15.
The Canadiens’ medical staff will need to continue managing this situation with extreme caution.
We will have to monitor whether his condition improves in the coming days, but the images described this morning in Brossard suggest patience will be required.
Solo session for Newhook this morning.
He’s grimacing a lot while skating and taking a long time before moving on to the next drills.
He still looks very far from a return to play, even though he’s able to generate some speed in his movements. – Cook
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Alex Newhook appears far from return as concerning signs emerge at Canadiens practice
Do you believe that Alex Newhook will return to play before the end of the season?