General manager Kent Hughes said Friday that Newhook (ankle) is getting close to a return, Arpon Basu of The Athletic reports.

EDGE Analysis

Newhook suffered a high-ankle sprain Nov. 30 and has missed the last 26 games. Newhook was expected to miss 10-12 weeks, which would see him back in action by Feb. 10 against Dallas at the earliest. Newhook should serve as the second-line center upon his return, as the Canadiens dealt Sean Monahan to the Jets on Friday. Newhook has seven goals and 13 points in 23 contests this season.