Executive Jeff Gorton, who signed on with the Montreal Canadiens franchise back in 2021. When the Habs squad took charge and went down the stretch to the 2021 Stanley Cup Finals, they came short against the Tampa Bay Lightning.
After that season, Kent Hughes was introduced as the new General Manager of the Montreal Canadiens' franchise. He took the helm of the team and did his darn best to lead the way for his club. Unfortunately, due to critical circumstances, he was unable to pull off any significant moves to improve the team's outlook.
However, after years of hope and a new concentration with coaching, courtesy of Martin St. Louis, there was a shift in the roster. A virtual repeat of the previous two years, but a new change in attitude that gave these young fellas a trip to the post-season.
Especially, with how the team managed to enter the 2025 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs, but bowed down to the Washington Capitals. This team has taken a significant over-shift over the last two and a half months, following the moves and acquisitions made to a newly transformed squad of players.
Not to mention, the rookies and sophomores, who have taken charge in their respective gameplay, have shifted the momentum to the Canadiens' side of the ice. Demonstrating the due diligence of these two men, mentioned above, in my opinion.
The success and importance of Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes for the Montreal Canadiens
Both executives, Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes have been observing the gameplay and the NHL in particular and worked their way to a modest, but successful type of transformation. Utilizing their every need by working with the other general managers in the league.
Securing a solid foundation for the franchise's future, as well as identifying who will lead this team to greatness, is key, in my opinion. They have transformed the franchise's fortunes with a secure cap system, future assets and prospects, roster, players who require a fresh start with another hockey team, and many more.
According to multiple sources, the Canadiens are in talks to extend Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes contracts.
— Renaud Lavoie (@renlavoietva) September 15, 2025
This team will strive on the management's efforts and continue to delve into the competition laid ahead. Jeff Gorton and Kent Hughes will be the prime talk of the league if the team manages to go down the stretch of the postseason this year, and it will give the fans something loud to cheer about.
As a Habs fan, I am proud of the upcoming success this team may garner. However, after the quarter mark of the season, it will be the standings that ultimately describe this team's efforts to engage in a manner of strict competition.