For the Montreal Canadiens, December feels quite familiar. Typically, the NHL schedule features numerous home games for Montreal at the beginning of the month, followed by travels during the holiday season. This year, the Canadiens kick off a five-game home stretch at the Bell Centre on Tuesday (Dec. 3) against the New York Islanders. What objectives should they pursue, and what are the expectations? Let’s explore.
1: Incorporating Patrik Laine into the Team’s Offense
As I was preparing this piece, it was announced that forward Patrik Laine will be making his season debut against the Islanders. Canadiens’ general manager Kent Hughes considered Laine a significant addition when he traded for him from the Columbus Blue Jackets in August. However, a knee injury suffered during a preseason game against the Toronto Maple Leafs delayed Laine’s season by two to three months, though fortunately, no surgery was needed.
The 26-year-old began skating with the team in November, a positive development. Thanks to modern medicine, a healthy lifestyle, and perhaps a bit of luck, he is back on the active roster.
However, many questions that arose in August and September remain unresolved in December. Who will be his ideal line partners? Is he a good fit for the team? Can he recapture his previous offensive prowess? According to reports, he will likely start his Canadiens career alongside Juraj Slafkovsky and Kirby Dach. This pairing could yield promising results by combining Laine’s established offensive skill with Slafkovsky’s budding talent and Dach’s untapped potential.
The Canadiens receive an early holiday gift this year, and the hope is that it doesn’t need to be returned.
2: Securing Points Against Manageable Opponents
While analyzing silver linings in losses, like the one against the New York Rangers on Nov. 30, getting actual points in the standings is even more beneficial for a team seeking momentum.
During this five-game home stretch, Montreal faces several opponents:
The match against the Islanders is notable as Canadiens legend Patrick Roy returns to Montreal, but his team is currently struggling with a record of 9-10-6 and a minus-9 goal differential. Thus, while they may see the Habs as an opportunity to gain points, it’s a game Montreal can realistically win. Securing at least one point through overtime is also a possibility.
Likewise, the games against Nashville, Anaheim, and Pittsburgh seem winnable. The Predators are underperforming compared to their preseason expectations, currently averaging 3.13 goals against, ranking 21st in the league. The potential for Montreal to secure two points here is evident. Anaheim and Pittsburgh are on a similar tier to the Islanders—neither is in dire straits but has had enough losses to indicate ongoing rebuilding efforts. Remarkably, the Canadiens have already lost twice to the Penguins this season—could a third matchup bring a turnaround?
The one formidable opponent on the schedule is the Capitals, arriving on Saturday, Dec. 9. Even without superstar Alexander Ovechkin, the Capitals have been performing well, with a record of 17-6-1 and the NHL’s highest-scoring offense at 101 goals.
3: Boosting Newhook, Primeau, & Dach’s Performance
Many fans and analysts have expressed frustration over the performance of some Canadiens players.
Alex Newhook, Kirby Dach, and backup goalie Cayden Primeau have drawn criticism for various reasons. Newhook’s scoring has dipped (just five goals in 24 games), Primeau has struggled with a high goals against average of 4.45, and Dach’s minus-20 rating is concerning.
This home stand presents a chance for these players to rebuild their confidence. Playing Primeau against Nashville and Anaheim makes sense, given that neither team has a daunting offense. Newhook and especially Dach will benefit from increased momentum; Dach’s pairing with Slafkovsky and Laine could prove fruitful.
4: Engaging Fan Support
Amid the holiday spirit, the Canadiens are in need of strong fan backing. This isn’t about player trades or shifting players between leagues but rather the commitment of the fans. Do we really think Dach requires more booing? He is undoubtedly aware of his uneven performance.
This home stretch is a test for both the team and its supporters. Canadiens fans have always shown remarkable loyalty, standing by the franchise through highs and lows. Even when the team struggles, attendance remains high. Now is the time for fans to rally around the young players—Lane Hutson, Arber Xhekaj, Kaiden Ghule, Dach, and Slafkovsky—who need encouragement more than ever. It’s clear that this team is still a work in progress.
If you plan to attend any of these games and enjoy arriving early for warm-up sessions or showing support with a sign, feel free to do so. In many ways, everyone is in this together.
