The rebuilding process for some teams can progress quickly, especially with a bit of luck. However, for others, it may take much longer, leading to growing impatience among fans and management alike.
As for the Montreal Canadiens, their situation seems promising, but their passionate fanbase is already showing signs of impatience. They compete in the Atlantic Division, arguably the strongest division on paper, which poses challenges for less competitive teams aiming for playoff spots. While the Habs are not worried about missing the playoffs this season, they will eventually have to confront this issue.
With a talented young core and several exciting prospects on the way, the expectation is that the Canadiens could secure a playoff spot in the near future. Nonetheless, former Habs player Chris Nilan is skeptical, predicting that the team won’t make the playoffs until 2027, possibly even later.
He makes a valid point given the tough competition in the Atlantic division, likely to remain fierce in the coming years. However, it seems unreasonable to assume the Habs will be playoff outsiders three years from now, especially with promising talents like Ivan Demidov, Michael Hage, Jacob Fowler, David Reinbacher, Owen Beck, and others expected to join the ranks.
The Canadiens boast one of the best prospect pools in the league and are set to add a high draft pick this summer. While the current roster is young and lacks experience, they will grow and develop over the next three years. Coupled with the addition of these prospects, it’s hard not to envision the Habs emerging as significant contenders.
