The injury to Alex Newhook was announced only days ago. It was a major blow for the Canadiens. Four months of recovery are expected after his fractured right ankle.
Yet on Monday, Newhook surprised fans in Verdun. He appeared at the Verdun Auditorium wearing an orthopedic boot. He was calm, smiling, and sitting in the stands. Not in Columbus with his teammates.
Instead, he was there to support his sister Abby. She was playing for the Boston Fleet against the Montreal Victoire. Abby, a fifth-round draft pick, assisted on her team’s first goal. But the Fleet still lost 3-2.
The sight of Newhook in Montreal raised eyebrows. Some praised his support for women’s hockey. Others questioned why an injured player wasn’t traveling with the team. The debate quickly spread online.
Abby faces a crucial decision this Wednesday. She will learn if she makes Boston’s roster in the Professional Women’s Hockey League. Meanwhile, Alex continues his rehab. The Canadiens will have to manage without him until spring.
His unexpected appearance may seem harmless. But for fans, it reignited questions about commitment, priorities, and presence. And in Montreal, those questions never fade quietly.