In the heart of Montreal, where hockey is more than just a game, where it’s a way of life, the Canadiens are gearing up for another exciting season. The battle for spots on defense and an emerging No.1 goalie are just a couple of the key storylines to keep an eye on as the team prepares for the upcoming campaign.
With expectations always sky-high in Montreal, this season is particularly unique for the historic franchise. Coming off a rebuild, the Canadiens are looking to build off their improved performance from last season, where they accumulated 76 points, up from 68 the year before and a significant jump from the dismal 55 points in the 2021-22 season. Moving up the standings in a highly competitive division will be a tough challenge, but the Habs are ready for the task at hand.
“I believe in this group so much,” defenseman Kaiden Guhle expressed confidently. “I think we’ll be able to make a big splash here in the next year or two and really start to make a push for it.” Guhle, who recently inked a lucrative six-year, $33.3 million contract, along with Mike Matheson and David Savard, have solidified their spots on the blue line. However, the remaining spots are up for grabs, creating an intense battle during training camp.
Arber Xhekaj, Justin Barron, Jordan Harris, and Jayden Struble have all been making their cases for a roster spot in recent seasons, showing their potential and determination. But the competition doesn’t end there. Prospects Lane Hutson and Logan Mailloux have turned heads with their play in limited action last season, earning themselves a legitimate shot to crack the lineup this year.
As the Canadiens gear up for another exciting chapter in their storied history, the battle for spots on defense and the emergence of a No.1 goalie will be key focal points for fans and analysts alike. With a mix of seasoned veterans and hungry young talent, Montreal is poised to make some noise in the NHL this season. Stay tuned for all the latest updates and analysis as the Canadiens embark on their journey towards success.
