The Montreal Canadiens are strategically positioning themselves for a promising 2025-2026 season through calculated moves rather than high-profile acquisitions. These subtle yet significant adjustments to the roster and team dynamics could be key to the team's growth and competitiveness.
One of the most talked-about additions to the Canadiens' lineup is Ivan Demidov. Drafted fifth overall in 2024, Demidov has generated considerable excitement, especially after his performance in the Kontinental Hockey League (KHL). In his first full season with SKA St. Petersburg, he scored 49 points in 65 games, surpassing the KHL record for a player under 20. His skill translated quickly, notching two points in two regular-season NHL games and two assists in five playoff games. Demidov's creativity and puck-handling skills are expected to make an immediate impact, potentially earning him a spot on the top lines.
The acquisition of Zachary Bolduc is another strategic move by the Canadiens. Bolduc, known for his physical play, addresses a need for a tougher forward group, which was exposed during their playoff series against the Washington Capitals. General Manager Kent Hughes traded Logan Mailloux to the St. Louis Blues in exchange for Bolduc. The Canadiens lost key penalty killers like Christian Dvorak and Joel Armia, creating an opportunity for Bolduc to step up. Bolduc has expressed his readiness to contribute to the penalty kill, citing his hockey smarts and vision. His tenacity and attention to detail could make him a valuable asset in this role.
Beyond these additions, the Canadiens have also made other moves to bolster their roster depth. The team signed veteran players such as Joe Veleno, Sammy Blais, and goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen to one-year contracts. Blais, who recently won a Calder Cup championship with the Abbotsford Canucks, brings additional forward depth. These signings reflect a strategy of adding experienced players who can compete for roster spots and contribute in various roles.
These moves come after a season where the Canadiens showed significant progress, finishing with a 40-31-11 record and making a return to the playoffs. Although they were eliminated in the first round by the Washington Capitals, the team's young, skilled roster has created optimism for the future. Key players like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Juraj Slafkovsky form an excellent top line, and with Demidov's arrival, the team's offensive firepower is expected to increase.
While the Canadiens have lost some players, including David Savard to retirement, Christian Dvorak and Joel Armia in free agency, and Emil Heineman via trade, the overall outlook remains positive. The team's management has focused on smart asset management, using trade pieces to acquire useful players with upside. The acquisition of Noah Dobson from the New York Islanders for two first-round picks and Emil Heineman is a notable example. Dobson, who signed an eight-year contract extension, brings considerable talent and experience to the Canadiens' defensive corps.
