The Montreal Canadiens, a team steeped in NHL history, boasts a legacy of remarkable goal scorers. While the team has seen numerous talented players don the famous bleu, blanc, rouge, only a select few have reached the coveted 50-goal mark in a single season. This exclusive club features some of the most iconic names in hockey history, players whose offensive prowess left an indelible mark on the franchise and the sport itself.
The first player to achieve this feat was the legendary Maurice "Rocket" Richard, who in the 1944-45 season, became the first player in NHL history to score 50 goals in 50 games. Richard's accomplishment was a testament to his skill and determination, as opponents frequently resorted to physical tactics to try and contain him. He scored his 50th goal in the final game of the season against the Boston Bruins.
It would be another 16 years before any other Canadien would reach the 50-goal plateau. Bernie Geoffrion matched the achievement in the 1960-61 season, scoring his 50th in the team's 68th game. Geoffrion's success further solidified the Canadiens' reputation as a breeding ground for elite offensive talent.
Following in their footsteps, the electrifying Guy Lafleur etched his name in Canadiens' lore. Lafleur surpassed 50 goals in the 1974-75 season with 53 goals, and then went on an incredible run of six consecutive seasons with at least 50 goals. "The Flower," as he was known, became the team's all-time leading scorer and was the first NHL player to record at least 50 goals and 100 points in six straight seasons. He recorded 11 of his 19 career hat tricks during this period.
After Lafleur, it was Stéphane Richer's turn to light up the Montreal Forum. Richer reached the 50-goal mark twice, first in 1987-88 and again in 1989-90, with 51 goals. His 51-goal campaign in 1989-90 remains the last time a Canadiens player has scored 50 or more goals in a single season.
As of today, no Canadiens player has reached the 50-goal mark since Richer's outstanding season in 1989-90. Some players have come close, such as Max Pacioretty, who scored 39 goals in one season. The current roster boasts promising young talents like Cole Caufield, who is projected to potentially reach the 50-goal mark. Caufield reached a career-high of 37 goals in the 2024-2025 season. With the team's recent acquisitions of offensive talent, there is optimism that the Canadiens may soon see another player join the ranks of their 50-goal scorers.
