Montreal is being called the Eastern Conference team to watch during the 2025/26 season. They are being hailed as a commanding team that will excel throughout the season and possess a decorated record in the win column.
The team is poised to outperform most Atlantic Division rivals and be on track to overtake the likes of the Tampa Bay Lightning and Florida Panthers. Being undefeated against the Panthers last season, considering the gameplay employed against their opponents.
This Canadiens' team will have its hands full throughout the year due to the intense scrutiny from media and analysts who will scrutinize their gameplay. This team will use this experience, however, to be better on the ice and implement a commanding effort to win games.
First obstacle the Habs will face during the year
Injuries being accounted for
The critical outlook for many players in a physical game is the injury scenario that many dread, but have to consider because of the hard-hitting game hockey is. This aspect will be a prime place to keep on track in case of an injury to a core player and a backup player if it does occur.
Filling the void, especially if it is long-term and could be a problem for the team going forward. This scenario gives the team a preparation of keeping an open mind and utilizing that approach by making a swift move.
Many teams will try to shut down the offensive game of the Montreal Canadiens and the coaching staff by playing a rugged game and using that physicality to dictate the game in their respective favour.
Second. Game-Mentality
Certain pushes might not go the Canadiens' way, night in and out. Still, they will provide ample opportunities to take in the experience and utilize it during the post-season if the team finds itself down in the score column and expands its gameplay.
Being prepared to lead in the standings and take charge of the game by being that dominant figure will give the team the advantage needed to win games. Utilizing their "Picking the right moments" play, which is compared to a chess-like game.
Containing that kind of confidence will give the players an added cushion to win games. Not being distracted by a losing streak or not having calls go their way should not discourage them. Taking into consideration that his team will go on hot streaks and be in tight competitions will be the prime focus.
The goaltending approach of the Montreal Canadiens
This approach will be crucial for the team. The question now is whether this is the right goaltending tandem or if tweaks will be needed. Will Sam Montembeault take control of his future, or will his backup, Jakub Dobes, become that X-factor?
Depending on this tandem's performance in the first quarter mark of the season, it will determine the outlook for the team and define the coaching staff's style of gameplay and attributes for building a sound system.
This aspect will also be observed heavily, with many questioning the credibility of the goaltending of the Montreal Canadiens.