Montreal Canadiens: Final thoughts of 2017 going into 2018
By Omar L
The year is almost over for the Montreal Canadiens, and there is a lot to think about as we all transition into 2018 at midnight.
Things will be different after the clock stricks 12. We’ll have to get used to writing eights instead of sevens at the end of datelines and wrap our heads around the fact that the next decade will be over in two years. Another thing that is probably over is any hope for the Montreal Canadiens to save their season.
It’s not ideal for the Habs to be where they are, especially when you consider all the excitement fans had going into this year. On the other hand, everything that’s happened has led up to this point. With 2017 almost over, it’s time to move on from what went on in the past and start to look towards the future. What future that is exactly won’t be answered until next year (*punch line drum*).
Whether Marc Bergevin is here for the rest of the season or not, the mentality should be to sell. Meaning the likes of Derrick Brassard or any other player who is out there should be off limits. I’m not sure if there any untouchables on the team anymore save for Carey Price, Jonathan Drouin, Shea Weber, and maybe Brendan Gallagher. At this point, the Habs may consider any and every option.
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Additionally, Claude Julien has to accept that the Habs aren’t the 2011 Boston Bruins. That team was heavy and efficient but had the players to do it. Even when the likes of Milan Lucic and Nathan Horton left, the Bruins still had that flavour to them while playing.
Defence is important, but when it holds the team back from scoring no more than one goal a game, there is a problem. Julien needs to recognize everyone’s strengths and to take the appropriate measures to bring them out. The change in zone entries is a start where all five on the ice enter as a unit making more use of the blueline as rush options.
As I said in my latest spot on Habsfan vs. Leafsfan, the one thing the fan base can look forward to in 2018 is an answer. It’ll take some time to get that answer, but once we do, it could make watching the Habs a little less upsetting.
Next: Send Mete Back No Matter What
Happy New Years Montreal Canadiens fans. Hopefully, 2018 is a little more clear than 2017 was.