Canadiens' Chiarot expected to miss a week

The Montreal Canadiens have placed one of their most significant trade chips on the shelf.

The team moved veteran defenseman Ben Chiarot to injured reserve Sunday due to a lower-body injury and expects him to miss one week.

Montreal recalled defenseman Corey Schueneman from the AHL in a corresponding move.

Chiarot briefly exited Saturday's clash against the Columbus Blue Jackets during the second period but was able to return and finish the game. His skate collided with Blue Jackets forward Brendan Gaunce, and he appeared to roll his left ankle, according to the Columbus Dispatch's Brian Hedger.

The blue-liner played just under 23 minutes of Montreal's 2-1 loss.

Chiarot's absence is a big blow to the struggling Habs. He leads all Montreal skaters in ice time, averaging 23:17 a contest.

The 30-year-old has been at the center of trade rumors, and multiple teams have reportedly expressed interest in him. Chiarot will become an unrestricted free agent after the 2021-22 campaign. His current deal carries a $3.5-million cap hit.

Chiarot has five goals and four assists in 44 games so far this season.