The Montreal Canadiens had a perfect start during the 2023-24 season, which they hope to replicate in 2024-25. The Canadiens went 5-2-2 through October, putting them near the top of the Atlantic Division. There were questions about whether it was a sign that the Canadiens were emerging from their rebuilding stage. However, they returned to earth and didn't have a winning record in the other months during the season.
They stuck in playoff contention until April 4th, 2024, when they lost 7-4 to the Tampa Bay Lightning. It was the third consecutive year they wouldn't be playing in the postseason, the first time they've fallen into that kind of drought since 1999-2001. It was also the third straight time they finished last in the division, which happened for the first time in franchise history.
It can't get much worse than the 2023-24 season for the Canadiens, but there are some tough stretches during the season. Starting the season with back-to-back games against the Toronto Maple Leafs and Boston Bruins isn't the best way to get their feet wet, and the extended road trip over the holidays will also cause problems.
The 2024-25 Montreal Canadiens schedule. pic.twitter.com/j5C71fqWUs
— Arpon Basu (@ArponBasu) July 2, 2024
The home opener against the Maple Leafs is one of the most notable games of the season, as is the home opener in Boston against the Bruins. Canadiens fans will see first-overall pick Macklin Celebrini for the first time on February 27th if he decides to turn pro, and they could also see their lost star Matvei Michkov for the first time on April 5th.
Another important game for the franchise will be the December 1st matchup with the Boston Bruins. It won't be in Montreal, but the Sunday afternoon game will commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Bruins-Canadiens rivalry. The teams will play 100 years after their first meeting on December 1st, 1924.