After 10 games, the Montreal Canadiens are in seventh place in the Atlantic Division with a record of 4-5-1, ahead of only the Boston Bruins, though that may not last long. Fans are more concerned about how the team is losing rather than the losses themselves.
In many matches, the Canadiens have been outplayed and outworked, even winning some games like their opening night against the Toronto Maple Leafs. While having one of the youngest rosters in the NHL and undergoing a rebuild contribute to their struggles, their most significant issue is their lack of a team identity this season.
Frustrations have grown among fans and players alike. Within a week, Montreal conceded four goals early in two home games at the Bell Centre. Though they had slow starts last season, they were expected to be more competitive this year, especially in pursuit of a playoff spot. Unfortunately, they have not been able to meet the energy of their opponents from the opening faceoff. In matchups against the New York Rangers and the Seattle Kraken, Montreal struggled to counter their opponents’ strategies. Despite moments of improved effort in winning two consecutive games after a 7-2 loss, they were thoroughly outplayed by Seattle in an 8-2 defeat.
Fans are still focused on the rebuilding process, looking for an entertaining brand of hockey as the younger players develop. However, the ongoing disappointment is palpable. Defenseman Mike Matheson expressed feeling embarrassed and frustrated after the Kraken matchup. When asked about the team’s issues, Juraj Slafkovsky said, “No, but I’m sure you guys will figure it out… Right now, the wrong thing is that they scored eight times on us, and we have to figure it out. It doesn’t matter if we won our last two games if this happens.”
Head coach Martin St. Louis will need to tackle this frustration early in the season, particularly as players’ true feelings about their struggles come to light.
The Canadiens’ defensive woes are also evident. While goaltender Samuel Montembeault has had some weak starts, the bigger problem lies in the team’s overall defensive performance. Statistically, they rank poorly in key areas such as goal differential, total goals against, and shots allowed. These figures indicate that no goalie can be entirely blamed for the team’s struggles when they are allowing over 38 shots per game, with numerous high-danger chances.
The current defensive strategy may be too complex for the inexperienced roster, necessitating changes. Their defensive pairs aren’t performing well, and they need to emphasize physical play and simpler tactics to clear their zone. Relying on David Savard for blocked shots isn’t a sustainable strategy, as allowing too many shot attempts is concerning. Fortunately, the return of Kaiden Guhle could help strengthen their defensive presence.
In addition to returning players, changes may be in the works. Insider Pierre LeBrun mentioned that General Manager Kent Hughes is seeking veteran defensive reinforcements, particularly for the right side, but is cautious about not derailing the long-term strategy. This aligns with management’s history of being judicious in their trades and acquisitions.
On a brighter note, the Canadiens’ top line, led by Nick Suzuki, is performing well, with Cole Caufield ranking among the top goal scorers in the league. Their special teams have shown significant improvement as well. The key now is for the team to solidify its identity at five-on-five. Until they determine whether they are a grinding team, a fast-paced squad, or capable of outworking their opponents, the Canadiens risk continued decline in the standings, missing out on crucial development opportunities that come with being in playoff contention heading into April.
