Although Juraj Slafkovsky is experiencing what he describes as a slow start to the 2024-25 NHL season, he is quickly becoming an essential player for the Montreal Canadiens. In his second full NHL season, he has recorded four points in four games, including one goal and three assists. Slafkovsky has demonstrated notable improvement, putting to rest initial doubts about his potential. Over his last 39 games, he has amassed 36 points, indicating that he is starting to find his offensive rhythm.
His self-awareness appears to be one of the key lessons in his early growth. He has acknowledged previous slow starts, but this season feels different. He is driven to improve his performance. In years past, a slow start might have led to a decrease in his effectiveness, resulting in few or no points. This season, he is making an impact right from the beginning. Even if his scoring doesn’t meet his expectations, he is still seeking ways to contribute. He made a focused effort to gain muscle in the offseason, and this added size and strength are beginning to bear fruit.
Slafkovsky is expected to experience an offensive surge
According to TSN’s Frank Corrado, Slafkovsky’s success hinges on his ability to dominate near the net. Like a proficient power forward, he is effectively incorporating this aspect into his gameplay.
At 6-foot-3 and weighing 225 pounds, the 19-year-old possesses the size and strength to overpower NHL defensemen, creating scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates. By establishing a presence in front of the net, Slafkovsky positions himself as a serious scoring threat. As he develops various facets of his game, there’s optimism that he could see a substantial increase in his production. Corrado even mentions that if Slafkovsky continues to operate in the “dirty areas” of the ice, he might achieve 70 points this season, which could be a conservative estimate if his upward trend continues.
