Three positives for the 2024-25 Canadiens
It's been another losing season, but there is reason for hope next year and beyond.
The Montreal Canadiens are nearly two full seasons into their rebuild, there have been plenty of positives and a fair share of growing pains.
With that said, there are many things to be happy about; despite no playoffs again, the team has grown as a cohesive unit. Culture has become synonymous with the current Habs; I spoke at length about the brotherhood that has formed on and off the ice. Martin St. Louis has the club buying into what he is selling and the team is headed in the right direction.
Winning has been the goal since the start of the new regime and so far it hasn’t played out the way anyone has hoped. But that isn’t a surprise; given the fact that the team has largely performed with just one line. Production from lines two through four has been sporadic at best and the defence has done their best, but more support is crucial to add.
Kent Hughes is well aware that the draft and free agency will be big opportunities for him to improve the teams' holes. Management has also seen tremendous growth from many players, which could play into their hands should a trade to improve the team present itself. Whether you’re an optimist or a pessimist, it’s not hard to see that the team is headed in the right direction.
Player development is also a strength for the Canadiens, which is a plus considering the amount of prospects that get added each summer at the draft. College free agents also become a great option, while they may come in needing to shore up their game, having Adam Nicholas helping out is huge for the organization. The ball is rolling and from top to bottom, the goal remains the same - to one day compete for a Stanley Cup - and being patient will ensure that the process isn’t rushed, so it will help the team remain a contender for many years to come.
Lets dive into three things the Canadiens have to look forward to heading into next season.