The Montreal Canadiens have resumed their season with three killer wins in a row. With two regulation wins and one in overtime, the Canadiens are proving they have what it takes to win. They might not be in a playoff spot at this time, but they are mere digits away from potentially stealing a spot.
The Canadiens are five points from being in a wild-card spot. If they can continue to expand their win streak, they have a solid chance at making a run. They have a record of 28-26-5; last year, their record was 23-28-8, and they had 54 points in the standings. The difference one year makes is wild, but it also helps that the depth of their roster is strong.
Montreal has not made it back to the playoffs since 2021. During that run, they had won three rounds, losing to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Based on their history with playoffs, they are due to make a return either this year or next. If they can continue racking up wins.
Canadiens Captain Nick Suzuki has had an impressive season and is the team’s top points leader. He has 18 goals and 42 assists this season in 59 games. He has recorded nine points throughout February with limited games due to the break. In the overtime win against San Jose, he scored twice in the first period, keeping his team in the race. These two goals extended his personal multi-point streak to three games.
Suzuki was named the 31st captain of the Montreal Canadiens at 23 years old. This made him the youngest captain in franchise history. His development and growth has been proven over the past few seasons. His composure on the ice and maturity have made him a great captain, even now at the age of 25.
Cole Caufield is one of the most popular and talked-about names within the franchise. The 24-year-old winger has overcome many obstacles throughout his career. He is second on the team in points with 28 goals and 25 assists, averaging 17:56 per game. However, he is the top goal scorer for the team. Caufield has been one of the most reliable players this season, and seems to only be getting better.
Caufield has recorded three goals and three assists in February, including his most recent overtime goal against San Jose. He made a beautiful play, dragging the puck between his legs to maneuver around Macklin Celebrini. This goal was Caufield’s 28th of the season. The forward had recently scored his 200th goal against the Hurricanes in a 4-0 shutout win. He became the fastest player in franchise history to hit this milestone in thirty years.
Rookie Lane Hutson has had a great season and has been a game-changer for the team. He has 40 assists and four goals in 59 games. He has been the type of young defenseman the team needed. He has a lot to learn and develop; however, his play-making skills are top-notch. He is leading all rookies in points, making him the top candidate for the Calder Trophy.
On top of having a young roster, the Canadiens also have great veterans who are leaders and highly skilled. The team has focused on bettering their goaltending the last few seasons, and it shows. Montreal’s players appear to be very close, with great chemistry on and off the ice. This makes it easier for players to adapt and work together even if line pairings change.
The Canadiens is proving that they are serious about winning and playing a full 60 minutes. If they don’t make the playoffs this year, it would be no surprise if next year is their chance. The team is showing progress within their rebuild and is a top competitor in the league. They will face the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday, March 1st.
If you enjoyed this article, subscribe to our newsletter here. Check out Stadium Rant Original shows on our Youtube channel and subscribe! Give our socials Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok a follow for more great content!
