Kirby Dach Bio
Kirby Dach is a Canadian professional ice hockey centre for the Montreal Canadiens of the National Hockey League (NHL). He was selected in the first round, third overall, by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2019 NHL entry draft. Dach began his professional career early into the 2019–20 season and has since made significant contributions to his teams, showcasing his skills on the ice.
Early Life and Background
Kirby Dach was born on January 21, 2001, in Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, Canada. He grew up in a supportive family, with his parents Dale and Hillary encouraging his early interest in hockey. Dach began playing ice hockey around the age of five, practicing in a backyard rink and on Garner Lake near his family’s cabin. As a child, he was a fan of the Edmonton Oilers and frequently attended games with his father. During his youth, Dach played minor ice hockey above his age level, including time with the Fort Saskatchewan Rangers of the Alberta Midget Hockey League. At age 13, he achieved remarkable success by recording 100 points in just 33 games, breaking a league record previously held by Tyler Benson. This early success laid the foundation for his future in the sport.
Path to Hockey
Kirby Dach was selected second overall by the Saskatoon Blades of the Western Hockey League (WHL) in the 2016 bantam draft and signed with the team shortly after. He made an immediate impact, being promoted to the Blades for the remainder of the 2016–17 season due to injuries among the team’s forwards. Dach scored his first major junior goal on February 10, 2017, against the Moose Jaw Warriors. In the 2017–18 season, he recorded seven goals and 39 assists in 52 games, showcasing his potential as a top player. In January 2019, Dach was named an alternate captain for the Blades for the remainder of the 2018–19 season. He also captained Team Orr at the CHL/NHL Top Prospects Game, where he recorded an assist. He finished the WHL season with 25 goals and 48 assists in 62 games, ranking third among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting Services for the 2019 NHL entry draft.
Kirby Dach Career
Early Career (2019–2020)
Kirby Dach began his professional career in the NHL with the Chicago Blackhawks during the 2019–20 season. He made his NHL debut against the Washington Capitals on October 20, 2019, and scored his first NHL goal just two days later against Marc-André Fleury of the Vegas Golden Knights. Despite the season being cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Dach finished with eight goals and 15 assists in 64 games. His performance during the 2020 Stanley Cup playoffs was noteworthy, as he was credited as one of the Blackhawks’ best players in their upset victory over the Edmonton Oilers. He recorded four assists in the first three games and scored his first career playoff goal against the Vegas Golden Knights, becoming one of the youngest players to achieve this milestone for the Blackhawks.
Breakthrough (2020–2022)
The 2020–21 season was challenging for Dach due to a wrist injury sustained during the World Junior Ice Hockey Championships, which limited his playtime. He returned to the Blackhawks on March 27, 2021, but faced further injury setbacks. The following season, 2021–22, was also difficult, as he managed only nine goals and 17 assists in 70 games. Despite these struggles, Dach was recognized for his potential, and discussions about his future with the team began as the Blackhawks underwent management changes. During the 2022 NHL entry draft, Dach was traded to the Montreal Canadiens. He signed a four-year contract extension worth $13.45 million on September 7, 2022. He scored his first goal with the Canadiens on October 17, 2022, in an overtime victory against the Pittsburgh Penguins. His versatility was showcased as he was moved between centre and wing positions, contributing to a successful start with his new team.
Notable Works and Milestones
Dach’s career highlights include his early achievements in the WHL, his impressive playoff performances, and his successful transition to the Montreal Canadiens. He set a new career high of 38 points during the 2022–23 season, despite facing injuries. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure has made him a valuable player in the NHL.
Kirby Dach Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Kirby Dach has been recognized for his contributions to the sport, particularly during his junior years and early NHL career. His selection in the first round of the NHL draft and his performance in the playoffs have garnered attention from fans and analysts alike.
Kirby Dach Awards Won
While specific awards won during his career are not detailed, Dach’s achievements, including his playoff performances and contributions to his teams, highlight his potential for future accolades in the NHL.
Kirby Dach Family
Kirby Dach comes from a supportive family background. His parents, Dale and Hillary, played a significant role in nurturing his passion for hockey from a young age.
Personal Life
Kirby Dach’s younger brother, Colton, was also selected by the Chicago Blackhawks in the 2021 NHL entry draft. The brothers have a friendly rivalry, with Colton describing their playing styles as contrasting, with Kirby being more of a pass-first player. They faced each other for the first time in a professional game on January 3, 2025, marking a significant moment in their careers.
