The NHL is a league constantly searching for the optimal formula for success. While big-market teams can throw money at the problem, smaller market teams need to be more creative in their approach to building a Stanley Cup contender. Examining the strategies of the Montreal Canadiens and the Colorado Mammoth reveals valuable lessons applicable across the league.

The Canadiens' Calculated Ascent

Five years ago, the Montreal Canadiens were in the Stanley Cup Final, but with a vastly different roster. Recognizing the need for a change, team owner Geoff Molson authorized a rebuild, a first in the modern history of the franchise. Under General Manager Kent Hughes and President of Hockey Operations Jeff Gorton, the Canadiens embarked on a strategic reshaping of their roster and cap sheet. This involved a focus on drafting and developing players with puck skills, on-ice intelligence, and skating abilities.

The Canadiens' rebuild wasn't just about acquiring talent; it was about fostering a winning culture. Coach Martin St. Louis implemented a development-first approach, allowing skilled players to learn and grow at the NHL level rather than being relegated to the American Hockey League. This strategy has yielded positive results, with players like Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Juraj Slafkovsky showing consistent improvement.

Montreal's approach also involved shrewd drafting, identifying and acquiring players like Lane Hutson, Noah Dobson, and Alexander Zharovsky. The Canadiens recognized the importance of size and physicality, adding players like Arber Xhekaj to protect their smaller, skilled players.

The Canadiens' rebuild has been praised for its near-perfect execution. The team has locked up its key players at reasonable prices, creating a core group that can grow together. While luck played a role in acquiring certain players, the Canadiens' success stems from having a clear plan and adapting to opportunities. The result is a team that is competitive, exciting, and garnering attention from around the league.

The Mammoth Model: Community and Culture

The Colorado Mammoth of the National Lacrosse League (NLL) offer a different, yet equally insightful, model for success. Owned by Kroenke Sports & Entertainment, the Mammoth prioritize community engagement and creating a positive atmosphere for both players and fans.

The Mammoth's success is built on a foundation of strong leadership, a professional environment, and a resilient team culture. Coach Pat Coyle and his assistants foster a no-panic mentality, empowering players to focus on their individual roles while contributing to the collective effort.

The Mammoth emphasize team unity and accountability. Players hold each other to high standards, both on and off the turf, creating a strong bond that translates to success on the field. This culture of accountability extends to player development, with veterans mentoring younger players and ensuring everyone is prepared to contribute.

The Mammoth also recognize the importance of adaptability. During their 2022 NLL championship run, the team faced numerous challenges, including injuries to key players. However, they found ways to overcome adversity, with role players stepping up and contributing in meaningful ways.

The Mammoth's commitment to the Colorado community has also been a key factor in their success. By supporting youth lacrosse initiatives, the Mammoth have helped grow the sport in the state and cultivate a loyal fan base. The team's focus on creating an entertaining game-day experience, complete with unique promotions and a lively atmosphere, has further solidified their connection with the community.

Lessons for the NHL

The Canadiens and the Mammoth, though operating in different leagues, offer valuable lessons for NHL teams looking to build the right way:

• Have a Plan, But Be Flexible: The Canadiens' rebuild demonstrates the importance of having a clear vision but also being adaptable to changing circumstances.
• Prioritize Player Development: Like the Canadiens, investing in player development and creating a supportive environment for young players to grow is crucial.
• Build a Strong Culture: The Mammoth's success highlights the importance of fostering a positive team culture built on leadership, accountability, and resilience.
• Engage with the Community: The Mammoth's commitment to community engagement demonstrates the value of connecting with fans and growing the sport at the grassroots level.
• Find Value in Role Players: Both the Canadiens and the Mammoth have shown that success requires contributions from all players, not just the stars.
• Transparency and Communication: The Canadiens have shown the importance of transparent communication between the team and the fans, managing expectations during the rebuilding process.

By embracing these principles, NHL teams can increase their chances of building a sustainable and successful franchise, regardless of market size or resources.