The Canadiens are aiming to be competitive this season, a sentiment we’ve heard frequently since their annual golf tournament.
However, to truly be in the running, they must address their defensive issues. If they don’t make improvements, the Habs risk finishing at the bottom of the NHL standings.
While scoring goals is important, allowing more goals than you score won’t help their cause. The team’s defense is a major problem, as it concedes far too many goals.
Currently, the Canadiens rank last in the league for expected 5-on-5 goals against per 60 minutes, and the gap is significant. A chart shared by the JFresh Twitter account illustrates this point well, showing how teams like the Sharks and Ducks outperform them.
Furthermore, a report by Jonathan Bernier in the Journal de Montréal highlights that the Canadiens allow the most shots from the slot per game and also struggle with zone exits, ranking 24th in that category.
Nonetheless, the defense has potential; it’s young, featuring players like Guhle, Xhekaj, Barron, and Hutson, who are still gaining experience alongside Matheson and Savard. Additionally, Savard has not started the season strongly.
On a brighter note, Monty had an impressive start in his first two games against the Leafs and Sens. However, he has faced challenges in subsequent matches against the Penguins and Bruins.
The Canadiens are still in a rebuilding phase, which can lead to on-ice mistakes as they transition from one of the league’s worst defensive squads to a more formidable one.
That said, it’s clear that the Canadiens must improve their decision-making in their defensive zone, and this improvement needs to start soon. The coaching staff must find solutions; otherwise, they may encounter more losses than wins this season.
