The Montreal Canadiens have built a reputation for resilience. Just when critics count them out, they find a way to bounce back, stringing together strong performances that remind everyone of their potential. They did it in December, then again after the 4 Nations break. And they proved it once more on Sunday, snapping a five-game winless streak by defeating the reigning Stanley Cup champions for a third time this season—this time in Florida.
Despite teetering on the edge of a playoff spot, Martin St-Louis’ squad is entering a gruelling final stretch: nine games in 16 days to close out April. This run will determine whether they make the postseason for the first time in a non-COVID season since 2017. Fans are desperate for playoff hockey, especially after missing out on the in-person experience of the Canadiens’ stunning 2021 run to the Stanley Cup Final.
Prospects Boost
The Habs will get reinforcements for the stretch drive, as some key prospects’ seasons have ended. One major storyline to watch is goaltending prospect Jacob Fowler. The team is in discussions with the 20-year-old, who must decide between returning for another NCAA season or turning pro.
Fowler has put together two stellar years at Boston College. In 2023-24, he posted a 2.14 GAA and a .926 Sv%. This season, he took it up a notch with a remarkable 1.63 GAA and a .940 Sv%. Many believe he has little left to prove at the college level and should take the next step against tougher competition.
He has three options:
- Sign his entry-level contract (ELC) and join the Canadiens immediately, burning a year of his three-year deal.
- Sign an AHL contract with Laval for the remainder of the season, with his ELC kicking in next year.
- Return to Boston College for another season.
While fans often downplay the impact of burning a year of an ELC, players and their agents don’t. Every year shaved off means getting to a bigger payday sooner under the CBA’s first-contract rules. Given Laval’s strong tandem of Cayden Primeau and Connor Hughes, the Canadiens may be willing to bring Fowler directly to Montreal as a third goaltender. It wouldn’t be surprising if they even dangled the promise of a start to entice him.
Contrary to what some may think, practicing with an NHL team in a playoff race wouldn’t be a setback for Fowler’s development. If the Canadiens fall short of the postseason, they’ve ensured Jakub Dobeš can be sent to Laval in time to help their AHL playoff push.
Meanwhile, Oliver Kapanen’s season has also concluded, and he’s expected to arrive in North America soon. Jeff Gorton previously stated that the young center would join Laval after his SHL season, but circumstances have since changed. Don’t be surprised if Kapanen lands in Montreal instead. Joshua Roy has not seized his NHL opportunity, and Laval could use his help. Roy may be sent back down while Kapanen stays with the big club.
The 21-year-old Kapanen put up 35 points in 36 SHL games and added three points in six playoff contests, proving his development in a strong European league.
Demidov to Follow?
Another top prospect, Ivan Demidov, could soon join the Canadiens—though not under contract just yet. Kent Hughes has made it clear that Demidov won’t suit up for Montreal this season, despite speculation that he might, which has since been denied.
The 19-year-old delivered an impressive first KHL season, tallying 49 points in 65 games despite limited ice time—a tactic SKA St. Petersburg seemingly used to pressure him into staying in Russia. In the playoffs, he has a goal and an assist through three games.
While he won’t play for the Habs this year, there’s nothing stopping the team from bringing him over to get acclimated. Spending time around the team, watching games with Kirby Dach and Michael Pezzetta, and adjusting to the North American game would be valuable experience for the young forward.
SKA currently trails Dynamo Moscow 2-1 in their best-of-seven series, and Canadiens fans are eager for Demidov to leave Russia, where pressure tactics to extend his contract remain in play. So far, he has resisted.
As the Canadiens push through their final stretch of the season, there’s plenty of excitement surrounding the team—and the potential arrival of top prospects only adds to the intrigue. One way or another, Montreal remains firmly in the mix.
