The Habs are certainly poised to break out this season, but what if the players on the team have a slow start and are not contributing from the outset? We take you through the players who must step up their game to help the Canadiens team excel in the standings.
Not to mention, give the star players on the team some relief with the scoring. The Canadiens squad is equipped with star power and depth, but it is how the depth players respond to the Habs' call for help and take them through the stretch of games, accumulating points.
The team is conditioned to win and produce at an elite level. Following last year's campaign, it is noted that the team will soon be a contender, matching the likes of the Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers.
As we take you through the list, we explain how these players can help their team score goals and produce plays for the Montreal Canadiens.
Four Montreal Canadiens players who should step-up their game
Defenceman Arber Xhekaj
The coveted Canadiens defenceman had a slow start to his season last year, and it took some time for Xhekaj to pick up his game and follow through with plays related to the game. His strength and physical play are stellar, but he needs to be more aware on the ice.
His gameplay may be frustrating to watch due to the lack of speed attached to his arsenal; however, he is still poised to break out as a defender and make plays regularly. Scoring goals may be challenging, but it could do wonders for the young player.
Forward/winger Juraj Slafkovsky
Even though he plays on the first line for the Canadiens, he needs to step up his game to keep pace with the captain, Nick Suzuki, and winger Cole Caufield. His attributes to the game of hockey are strong, and making the next move upwards would certainly complement his gameplay on the ice.
Forward/centre Jake Evans
Jake Evans possesses playmaking ability; however, he needs to excel on the scoring front due to the timing of the Montreal Canadiens' season. His ability to make plays should complement the fact that he can score goals and be that forward on the third or fourth line.
He might be the most impactful player on this list and would be able to carry the Habs during crucial moments in games played. It would be a complement to the team and, most necessarily, the fan base of the club.
Forward/centre Kirby Dach
Kirby Dach will need to improve his gameplay to compete effectively alongside the Montreal Canadiens' roster and lineup, given his current lack of production, despite putting up fair to low numbers in terms of production. His gameplay would give the Habs that level of added comfort when it comes to scoring and making plays.