Calling the Canadiens’ recent stretch before the Four Nations Faceoff a slump would be an understatement. With eight losses in their last nine games, Montreal went from fighting for a playoff spot to slipping out of contention entirely. Even more concerning, the team often looked fatigued and uninspired.
The break may have come a little too late to stop the slide, but it still offers a crucial reset—especially for players with uncertain futures, whether in Montreal or elsewhere. Let’s take a look at some key names.
A Chance to Recharge
For pending UFAs Jake Evans, David Savard, and Christian Dvorak—none of whom played in the tournament—the pause was an opportunity to rest, recover, and refuel. If any of them are moved at the deadline, they’ll need fresh legs for a potential playoff push with a new team.
Joel Armia, another UFA, saw limited ice time before Finland’s elimination, giving him a mix of game action and extra rest. Meanwhile, his countryman Patrik Laine used the event to find his rhythm after missing the first two months of the season. The tournament provided a change of pace and a temporary escape from Montreal’s media scrutiny—though his pre-tournament comments about ice time may have only added more pressure upon his return.
Samuel Montembeault might have benefitted from a full break, but being around some of the league’s best can be a confidence booster. As Canada’s third goaltender, he didn’t see game action, but given that only Andrei Vasilevskiy and Connor Hellebuyck have played more games than Montembeault this season, the lighter workload should serve him well.
Unexpected Blessing for Suzuki and Caufield
The decision to leave Nick Suzuki and Cole Caufield off Team Canada and Team USA may have been a blessing in disguise. Given the intensity of the Canada-USA matchups—and the injuries sustained in those games—both players avoided unnecessary wear and tear while staying fresh for the stretch run.
What’s Next?
With less than two weeks until the March 7 trade deadline, changes are coming in Montreal.
If Evans or Dvorak are dealt, Owen Beck has shown he deserves a shot at finishing the season in Montreal—at center, not on the wing.
If Savard is moved, Logan Mailloux is the most deserving of a call-up. He has made significant strides defensively, and with David Reinbacher returning to Laval, the Rocket can absorb the loss of Mailloux without depleting their blue line depth.
One storyline that has been somewhat overlooked by fans is Kent Hughes’ reported preference for acquiring players with term rather than just picks and prospects. If he can pull that off, he’ll not only strengthen the Canadiens but also keep the Rocket competitive, ensuring their young players gain valuable AHL playoff experience.
Moves are coming. The question is, how many—and how significant?
