Canadiens breakout candidates - Dach and Newhook

Two of the Montreal Canadiens big forward additions had very different seasons in 2023-24.

Alex Newhook battled through injuries but ultimately put together a relatively solid season given the circumstances. Losing Sean Monahan was a big deal for the Canadiens, but Newhook's inspired play on the power play and in the faceoff dot helped reduce the impact. Newhook's speed and quick release highlighted his toolkit and gave the Habs brass much to look forward to in the future.

It should be noted that Newhook posted a career-high in points with 34 despite playing only 55 games. Newhook's previous career best came with the Colorado Avalanche when he posted 33 points through 71 games in 2021-22. The St. John's, Newfoundland native played most of his season alongside linemates who aren't exactly offensively inclined.

As for Kirby Dach, after an inspiring first season in 2022-23 with the Canadiens, there were high hopes for year two. However, the matchup between the Habs and the top pick in the 2023 NHL Draft Connor Bedard didn't go well. Former Canadiens draft pick Jarred Tinordi injured Dach early in the game.

During Dach's first season with the Canadiens, he shared much of the same success as Newhook, which was promising since both players were Hughes's big offseason acquisitions. The Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta native notched a career-best 38 points, besting his previous career high by 12 points through 12 fewer games. While expectations are high for Dach, he has delivered to this point and there should be a belief that he will come back at 100% to stay healthy and perform under the Bell Centre's bright lights.

What's in store for Dach and Newhook for 2024-25 season

With a full offseason to prepare for the 2024-2025 campaign, Dach and Newhook should be primed for big seasons. Both players were given up on a little too early by their previous respective clubs, which could end up being a blessing for the Habs. Dach looks like a sure bet to be the Habs second line center, while Newhook's potential is somewhere between top six to nine forward.

I think that whatever both players achieve this season, which I'm hopeful will likely be career-best in all statistical categories, will not be the best we see from them. Dach, in my eyes has so much potential - if he can get past the injury trouble, he will solidify the Habs top-six center situation for the next 8-10 seasons. As for Newhook, his speed is such a difference-maker, he could easily play on the penalty kill and power play and he showed that his shot is no joke.

The draft gave reason for optimism, but the team that will be iced this upcoming season should have fans excited also. Dach and Newhook are still very new additions and we haven't yet seen the best of what they will become. But giving support to the top line will help balance out the Habs' attack and make them a stronger opponent.

Health is and always was the most crucial part of team success and I expect that with Dach and Newhook healthy, the Habs should make some noise this season.