The Montreal Canadiens weren’t supposed to be anywhere near contention this season, and while they have ground to make up, they aren’t out of the running yet. But if they want to hand everyone a shocker and sneak into the playoffs as a wild card, the Canadiens need quite a few players to step up.
They will likely be sellers at the trade deadline, and players who may not finish the season in Montreal won’t be listed below. Therefore, Jake Allen, for example, is someone who can end up playing the rest of the year in a different uniform for a would-be contender. But Sam Montembeault, barring an unforeseen move, will likely stick around, so expect a section on the latter.
Even if they sell at the deadline, the other four players listed below are also likely to stick around. And if they pick up their respective production, don’t be surprised if the Canadiens are playing meaningful games in March.