The Montreal Canadiens have announced that forward Max Domi has decided to wait 7-10 days before making a decision on whether he intends to return to the team for Phase 3. Domi and the Canadiens are basing that decision on the fact that he has Type-1 Diabetes and Celiac disease, which could put him more at risk of COVID-19. The team released a statement:
Considering Max’s health condition (Type 1 diabetes), both parties have agreed to take this responsible approach and to take this time to evaluate the ongoing situation, in order to make the best decision for Max’s health at the end of this period.
Domi’s decision will likely be based on the success of the Return to Play directive and the hope that the league can prevent any major breakouts or mini pandemics within each hub’s bubble. If the league can prove that their health plan is successful, then it’s likely Domi will agree to join his teammates before the 24-team tournament even begins.
While it’s clear the team is putting Domi’s health as its top priority, it isn’t going to help the team in its quest to pull off an upset in the upcoming 24-team tournament if the 25-year-old ends up opting out. The team has until Monday afternoon to submit their 31-man roster and this announcement would suggest that Domi will be on the list. If Domi opts out, the Canadiens will end up being a player short.
Domi has been a top-six forward since acquired in a trade with Arizona in 2018. He had a breakout season in 2018-19 with 28 goals and 72 points in his first year with the team. He did see a decrease in performance this past year with 17 goals and 44 points in 71 games, but regardless is a key player at the center position for the franchise.
they should probably just all opt out in hopes of getting the #1 pick